Serpe Group

Responsive Polymer Research

Biosensors

on-demand drug delivery

smart coatings

artificial muscles

water remediation

Photonic Materials

What We Do

Using a variety of analytical chemistry approaches, combined with a number of imaging techniques, we are trying to understand the behavior of responsive polymers to solve problems associated with health and the environment. 

We are designing novel systems for: early disease diagnosis (biosensing); light filtration and manipulation (photonic materials); controlled/triggered drug delivery; water remediation/waste reclamation; and antibacterial coatings.

Additionally, the group is designing new analytical instruments to characterize the conformational state of surface bound polymers. With these tools, we will investigate how the conformation of surface bound polymers depends on the distance between the surfaces. Our understanding of this system will guide the development of novel surface coatings for myriad applications.

About Us

Dr. Michael Serpe joined the Department of Chemistry at the University of Alberta in 2009. He was tenured and promoted to Associate Professor in 2013.  He was promoted to Full Professor, effective July 1, 2018. 

The Serpe group is composed of postdoctoral researchers, technicians, graduate students, undergraduate students, and the occasional high school student. 

Serpe Group
Code of Conduct