Welcome to the PChem-Bioelectronics group
A lab dedicated to advancements in photoelectroceuticals and living bioelectronics
At the Tian Group, we blend physical chemistry with bioelectronics to forge drug‐free, cell‐based, and non‐genetic therapeutic strategies that pave the way for sustainable healthcare. By applying the principles of physical chemistry, we develop diverse electronics‐enabled biointerfaces that mimic cellular behaviors, harnessing both classical and quantum phenomena for precise, real‐time control of cellular electrophysiology. Our work has yielded advanced biophysical tools that offer unprecedented insight into subcellular processes without relying on conventional pharmacological methods.
We pioneered the concept of photoelectroceuticals and developed a range of platforms that enable the study of electrophysiology across multiple biological scales with high temporal resolution using optical methods. Since 2012, we have led advancements in living electronics, designing composite materials that not only integrate with biological systems but also adapt and respond like natural entities. Looking ahead, we are committed to shaping a future where our innovations drive breakthroughs in healing, environmental sustainability, and scientific exploration. We believe that the future of sensing and modulation technologies should embrace the “Form Follows Fiction” philosophy—where design is driven not only by practical functionality but also by creative imagination and the compelling human-centered stories behind each innovation—rather than adhering solely to “Form Follows Function”.
“When you are enthusiastic about what you do, you feel this positive energy. It’s very simple.”
Paulo Coelho, the author of “The Alchemist”
“The only metrics that will truly matter to my life are the individuals whom I have been able to help, one by one, to become better people.”
How Will You Measure Your Life?”.
Group Highlights
Featured Lab Members
Pengju has been honored as a recipient of the 2025 ACS Division of Inorganic Chemistry Young Investigator Award—our warmest congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

Featured News
Jiuyun Shi, one of our former graduate students, has been named a 2025 ACS PMSE Future Faculty Award recipient. Warmest congratulations on this outstanding honor!

Featured Publications
We’re excited to share our latest review on electrochemical and photoelectrochemical modulation of cells and tissues! In this work, we explore the shared energy processes that underpin both biological systems and engineered devices, drawing connections that bridge the fields of bioelectronics and energy conversion/storage. If you’re interested in how these two worlds intersect, take a look at the paper here!