Graduate Student/Postdoc Graphics, Honorable Mention. Sergei Rigin. Graduate Student/Postdoc Graphics, 1st Place. Sergei Rigin. The image is a snapshot from a molecular dynamics simulation of a Janus particle, named after the Roman god with two faces. The particle’s surface is partially functionalized with outward-reaching polymer chains that resemble the iris of an eye, while the non-functionalized region remains exposed, forming a dark pupil. This unique asymmetry enables selective, programmable interactions and directional movement, making Janus particles a powerful tool for designing smart, responsive nanomaterials.
Undergraduate students, graduate students, postdocs, faculty and staff are encouraged to enter Envisioning Research, the university’s annual research image contest. Help us highlight the beauty and importance of the work being done at the bench and in the field, both on campus and around the world. See the 2025 contest winners for inspiration. Submissions are due by Wednesday, April 29!
