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About

Neil Ayres is a leading researcher in the design and synthesis of advanced polymeric materials, with a primary focus on porous polymer foams and stimuli-responsive soft matter. His work centers on emulsion-templated polymerization, particularly the development of elastomeric polyHIPEs (polymerized high internal phase emulsions) for applications ranging from aerospace to biomaterials. A major contribution is the use of thiol-ene chemistry to create patterned polyHIPE-hydrogel composites, enabling precise spatial control over material properties. Ayres has also pioneered wavelength-controlled dynamic covalent chemistry, demonstrating reversible softening and stiffening in organogels through disulfide-diselenide exchange—a breakthrough for adaptive materials. His recent work on stearic acid-infused PDMS polyMIPEs introduces shape memory behavior into emulsion-templated polymers, expanding their utility in smart coatings and actuators. With over 55 citations across his most-cited papers, Ayres’ research is recognized for its innovative combination of synthetic chemistry and materials engineering. His work not only advances fundamental understanding of polymer network design but also delivers practical, tunable platforms for next-generation functional materials.