Maren Roman

Synopsis: 

Dr. Roman investigates the molecular properties of glycomaterials, ranging from carbohydrates to polysaccharide-based nanomaterials. She is the Director of GlycoMIP, a National Science Foundation Materials Innovation Platform (DMR-1933525), focused on the advancement of glycomaterials science.

Research Description:

Life on Earth is based on four molecular building blocks: glycans, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Our understanding of glycans, composed of carbohydrates and structurally the most complex of the four, lags far behind our understanding of the other building blocks. Research in the Glycomaterials Science and Technology Laboratory, led by Dr. Roman, focuses on the molecular properties and potential applications of carbohydrate-based materials. Areas of interest range from solution-state properties of small carbohydrates to tissue engineering and drug delivery applications of glyco-nanomaterials.

The lab uses a combination of microscopy and spectroscopy methods, rheometry, and quartz crystal microbalance to determine the properties of natural and functionalized glycomaterials. The long-term goal of the Glycomaterials Science and Technology Laboratory is to increase the use of sustainable materials in society and improve human health through new biomedical technologies.