Our Current

Research projects

Over the last few decades, the concept of miniaturization has been actively explored for the development of more efficient analytical platforms. Besides microfluidic devices, a number of analytical platforms have emerged for high-throughput molecular measurements. Towards this goal, our group is dedicated to advance the understanding and applicability of microfluidic devices, nanomaterials, and electrochemical processes. We are focused on the development of integrated analytical approaches that span from highly specialized instrumentation to simple paper-based devices. Applications of these projects include the quantification of biomedically-relevant analytes, the design of biocatalysts, and the implementation of artificial intelligence to address analytical problems.

Machine Learning & Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES)

01

While the use of DES represents one of the fastest-growing fields of green chemistry, their application was limited by the development of new systems – which was almost exclusively done by trial and error and was often derivative from known mixtures. To overcome this limitation, our lab developed a series of machine learning approaches to recognize the patterns in hydrogen bonding and calculate (in a few seconds) the probability of formation of these solvents, as well as some of their key properties.

Food Antioxidants

02

Minimizing the oxidation of lipids remains one of the most important challenges to extend the shelf-life of food products and reduce food waste. Aiming to address this problem, we are interested in understanding the fundamental chemistry of these reactions and develop super-synergistic mixtures of antioxidants. Outcomes of this work can lead to a more rational use of these additives, controlling rancidity, limiting the economic burden on consumers and producers of foods, and lowering their potential health effects. 

Electrophoresis and Microfluidic Devices

03

Enabling the efficient separation and quantification of multiple components in complex samples, our team has developed multiple sample-pretreatment steps and separation protocols. Building upon this work, and aiming to provide near-zero cost analytical platforms that can be deployed as point-of-need solutions, we have also recently presented several approaches based on paper microfluidic devices and demonstrated the possibility to apply glow-stick chemistry to detect biomolecules.

Electrochemical Biosensors

04

Electrochemistry provides a simple, fast, and inexpensive way to quantify analytes at low concentrations and with tunable selectivity. Adding to our experience with portable sensors, recent work has focused on the integration of respirometric assays as a way to detect metabolically-active bacteria. Specifically, we have developed a suite of advanced sensors based on plain paper-derived carbon electrodes, wearable devices based on carbon electrodes modified with AuNP, or high-throughput bacterial assays via Au-based ultra-dense arrays of nanostructured microelectrodes.

Interaction of Macromolecules with Nanomaterials

05

The adsorption of proteins to surfaces is a central concern for the rational use of materials, as it determines the final conformation, stability, and activity of such proteins. Aiming to develop more efficient biosensors, our group is especially interested in understanding the role of external electric fields on the adsorption of proteins to carbon-based substrates. In addition, we are interested in the use of adsorption processes as a simple way to remove metals from various fat samples, dramatically improving the production of renewable fuel. 

REU Program

06

This multi-site REU Program aims to provide a transformative experience to undergraduates, who will perform research on the synthesis, characterization, and application of deep eutectic solvents (DES). This will be accomplished through a decentralized program that includes mentoring from the most active researchers in the field. The program includes pre-REU, during-REU, and after-REU elements to enrich the research experience.

Recent

Awards

received by our team

Outstanding Reviewers

/ 2025, Analytical Methods
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Top 10% of most-viewed papers

/ 2025, Analysis & Sensing
2023 elpho cover

Top 10% of most-viewed papers

/ 2025, Electrophoresis
Picture of Dr. Ayres receiving an award

Graduate Award for Discovery

/ 2024, Lucas Ayres
Dr. Garcia and Dr. Ayres receiving an award from Provost Jones and Tanju Karanfil

Innovation award

/ 2014, CURF
Image of a beer glass with a sensor on the right
2023 elpho cover
Picture of Dr. Ayres receiving an award
Dr. Garcia and Dr. Ayres receiving an award from Provost Jones and Tanju Karanfil
$ 1 M+

External Funding Received

Our lab has received research funding from multiple organizations at the local, state, and federal level. We have also participated in multiple internationally-funded collaborations

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CHE 2446835
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2024 ACREC
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2024 ACRE
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2024 USDA
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2024 ACREC
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2023 CURF
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2023 SCDA ACRE
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2023 SCDA ACRE
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2022 ACREC
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CHE 2227374
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2021 ACREC
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STTR-21-1-T6.06-1513
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CHE 2050042
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CHE 2227374
ACRE Logo
2019 SCDA ACRE
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OISE 1565508
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Research Seed Grant
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CHE 1560300

local

Research

global impact

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People

We are committed to developing a globally competitive STEM workforce, cultivating a welcoming environment that supports the principles of merit, competition, equal opportunity, and excellence without excluding any individuals or groups
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Collaborations

We strive to build partnerships between academia and industry, leveraging resources to both increase economic competitiveness and educational opportunities
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Intellectual Property

We aim to transfer creative solutions from the lab to the society by actively participating in the innovation ecosystem
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Community Engagement

We routinely engage in programs to increase the scientific literacy of the public, specially when related to our research projects
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