Natalia Neris

 About Natalia

• Advisor: Javier Read de Alaniz
• Department: Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Campus: UCSB
• BioPACIFIC MIP Research: SET 2 - Sequence-Defined Materials

 What is your research focus?

My research centers on synthesizing clickable polypeptoids, which are engineered polymers mimicking biological molecules with enhanced stability compared to peptides. By integrating click chemistry into peptoids, my project enables the incorporation of functionalities previously impractical. This work aligns closely with BioPACIFIC MIP SET 2 on sequence-defined materials, focusing on designing and synthesizing peptoids with precise sequences for advanced material applications. Peptoids offer structural diversity, stability, and biocompatibility crucial for developing tailored materials in biotechnology and sustainable chemistry. Investigating how sequence variations affect properties like self-assembly and catalytic behavior directly supports SET 2’s goal of creating sequence-defined materials with specific functionalities. Moreover, my polypeptoid research contributes to BioPACIFIC MIP’s broader mission of interdisciplinary projects merging biology with materials science and engineering, aiming to innovate sustainable technologies through bio-inspired materials.

 What excites you about NSF BioPACIFIC MIP?

Having previously been a Fellow, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience and am enthusiastic about continuing with the BioPACIFIC MIP Fellows program. This program provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with experts from diverse disciplines and address complex challenges at the intersection of biology, chemistry, and materials science. As a researcher, I view this program as an ideal platform to further develop my knowledge and skills. Furthermore, the BioPACIFIC MIP Fellows program offers a supportive environment conducive to nurturing innovative ideas and translating them into meaningful solutions. I am eager to engage in collaborative efforts, continuously learn, and contribute to BioPACIFIC MIP's overarching mission of pioneering transformative advancements toward a sustainable future.