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About

Chujun Ni is a pioneering researcher in stimuli-responsive polymers and soft robotics, with a focus on shape-memory materials and hydrogels. Their work centers on leveraging light and dynamic covalent networks to achieve programmable, far-from-equilibrium shape-shifting behaviors. A major contribution is the development of an on-demand shape-memory polymer using light-regulated topological defects in dynamic covalent networks (138 citations), enabling unprecedented control over material properties. Ni also advanced underwater soft robotics with high-speed hydrogel robots powered by light (95 citations), overcoming traditional diffusion-limited actuation speeds. Their research on differential diffusion-driven shape-shifting hydrogels (58 citations) introduced far-from-equilibrium behaviors, enriching shape-morphing capabilities beyond monotonic equilibrium transitions. Notable achievements include creating shape-memory polymers with patternable recovery onset regulated by light (41 citations) and orthogonal photochemistry for reprogramming 3D-printed liquid crystal elastomers. With over 330 total citations across these key works, Ni’s innovations in light-driven, programmable materials hold transformative potential for soft robotics, biomedical devices, and adaptive structures.