The Tian Research Group

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.”

Clayton M. Christensen, in “How Will You Measure Your Life?”.

 

 

Group Highlights

Featured Alumni

Warmest congratulations to our former lab member, Professor Yuanwen Jiang, on being named one of the MIT Technology Review TR35 China honorees! This prestigious recognition celebrates his exceptional contributions to science and technology as one of the top young innovators under 35!

Featured Alumni

Warmest congratulations to our former lab member, Professor Menahem Rotenberg, for receiving the prestigious Krill Prize for Excellence in Scientific Research from the Wolf Foundation!

Featured Lab Members

Zhe Cheng has been selected to receive a William Rainey Harper Dissertation Fellowship for the 2025–2026 academic year! This prestigious award, one of the highest honors conferred by the University of Chicago, is intended both to recognize outstanding scholarly achievement and to support the completion of the doctoral degree.

Featured Lab Members

We’re thrilled to share that our undergraduate student, Brennan Lee, has been named a Stamps Scholar—an incredible honor recognizing his outstanding achievements and potential!

Featured Lab Members

Saehyun Kim has been awarded the prestigious 2025 KSEA-KUSCO Graduate Scholarship, recognizing his outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to advancing science and engineering!

Featured Lab Members

Vanessa Tian has received the Joan Shiu Chemistry Department Student Service Award! This distinguished honor recognizes students who have made exceptional contributions to the department through leadership, mentorship, and dedicated service.

Featured Lab Members

Wen Li has been awarded the Benjamin Ball Freud Merit Scholarship! This scholarship is given to students who demonstrate exceptional academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and a strong commitment to their field of study.

Featured Lab Members

Guangqing Yang has been awarded the Physical Sciences Collegiate Division Teaching Prize! This esteemed recognition honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to undergraduate education, a passion for teaching, and an ability to inspire and engage students in the physical sciences.

Featured Publications

Yuze Zheng and Guangqing Yang have published their review paper on bioelectronics for tissue regeneration in Biomaterials! This comprehensive work highlights recent advances at the intersection of electronics and regenerative medicine, offering a thoughtful overview of how emerging bioelectronic technologies are shaping the future of tissue repair and healing. 

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