We focus on the fundamental understanding of polymer gels and networks, with particular emphasis on how molecular topology, network defects, and crosslinking mechanisms govern material properties. Our work aims to resolve the fundamental structural, kinetic, and topological features that govern the behaviour of polymer networks.

To create well‑defined model systems, we employ both conventional and controlled polymerisation techniques (such as ATRP and RAFT) which enable deep fundamental insight but also provide a platform for applications in composites, biomedicine, and energy conversion/storage.

Current research topics include:

• fundamental investigations of gelation and crosslinking processes in radical polymerisations
• design and study of degradable gels and networks
• elucidating the influence of topological defects such as loops, dangling ends, and entanglements on network structure and macroscopic behaviour