Advancing Sustainable Bioelectrical Healthcare

At the Tian Group, we integrate physical chemistry, materials science, and bioelectronics to develop drug-free, cell-based, and non-genetic therapeutic strategies for human health and environmental sustainability. Our research is grounded in the quantitative principles of physical chemistry, which we use to design electronics-enabled biointerfaces capable of precise, real-time modulation and measurement of biological electrophysiology across molecular, cellular, tissue, and organismal scales. By harnessing both classical and quantum phenomena, we create biophysical platforms that provide mechanistic, predictive insight into subcellular processes, extending well beyond the capabilities of conventional pharmacological approaches.

Building on this foundation, we pioneered the concept of photoelectroceuticals, establishing optically addressable systems that enable high-temporal-resolution interrogation and control of electrophysiology across multiple biological hierarchies. Since 2012, we have led advances in living electronics, developing adaptive composite materials that not only integrate seamlessly with biological systems but also sense, respond, and evolve in dynamic physiological environments. These technologies transform electronics from static tools into active participants in living systems. A defining feature of our work is the emphasis on quantitation and global relevance. We incorporate system-level metrics—such as scalability, energy efficiency, material sustainability, and life-cycle impact—to rigorously evaluate performance and societal footprint. This framework ensures that our fundamental discoveries translate into technologies with measurable, globally scalable impact, bridging laboratory innovation with real-world deployment.

Equally central to our mission is mentorship. We cultivate scientists with a fully rounded mentality, emphasizing not only technical excellence but also creativity, integrity, resilience, and empathy. Our goal is to train researchers who can think across disciplines, communicate across cultures, and lead responsibly in a rapidly evolving scientific landscape. Looking forward, we are guided by the philosophy of “Form Follows Fiction.” We believe that the next generation of sensing and modulation technologies will emerge not solely from functional optimization, but from imaginative, human-centered design—where compelling scientific narratives inspire bold concepts, and creativity becomes a driver of transformative impact.