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About

Jiayu Wu is pioneering the next generation of intelligent hydrogels, drawing profound inspiration from the natural world to solve fundamental challenges in soft robotics and biomedical engineering. Her research centers on the molecular design and advanced manufacturing of hydrogels, with a particular focus on achieving unprecedented combinations of strength and toughness. Wu’s major contribution is the development of a strain-induced microphase separation strategy, which enabled the creation of a "Strong and Ultra‐Tough Supramolecular Hydrogel" (131 citations), a landmark paper that directly addresses the long-standing trade-off between these mechanical properties. She has further translated these material innovations into functional devices, most notably by 3D printing octopus-inspired hydrogel suckers that exhibit reversible, adaptive underwater adhesion (61 citations). Her work on high-fidelity hydrogel printing using dimethyl sulfoxide (10 citations) and the creation of a self-adaptive hydrogel gripper capable of manipulating ultra-soft objects (8 citations) demonstrates a clear trajectory from fundamental material science to practical, bio-inspired application. By mimicking the octopus’s remarkable dexterity, Wu is creating soft grippers that can handle delicate items—like fragile foods—without damage, positioning her at the forefront of adaptive, gentle manipulation technologies.