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About

Wenwen Feng is a leading researcher in soft robotics and advanced elastomeric materials, whose work has fundamentally advanced the performance limits of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) and ionic conductors. Her research focuses on creating materials that simultaneously achieve large actuation strain, high energy density, and mechanical robustness—properties traditionally considered mutually exclusive. Feng’s most impactful contribution is the development of a dielectric elastomer that delivers ultrahigh energy density and large strain, enabling fast-moving soft robots; this work has already garnered 156 citations since its 2024 publication. She also engineered superstretchable, yet stiff and fatigue-resistant, ligament-like elastomers (113 citations), solving a long-standing trade-off between stretchability and stiffness. Her highly robust amphibious soft robot, based on a water-stable and self-healing ionic conductor (82 citations), demonstrates imperceptible operation in both underwater and on-land environments. Most recently, Feng has pioneered elastic and ultra-stable ionic conductors for long-lifetime soft robots functioning in extreme environments. Her work consistently pushes the boundaries of what soft materials can achieve, making her a pivotal figure in the next generation of resilient, high-performance soft robotics.