Challa Kumar

Professor Emeritus

Education

• Postdoctoral Fellow, Columbia University, 1984-88
• Radiation Laboratory, University Notre Dame, 1982-1984
• Ph.D. Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur

Research Interests

Our research focuses on creating a new field of chemistry, Biological Materials. We use standard chemical reactions to modify proteins to create novel and exciting materials. For example, conducting, insulting and semiconducting materials are being created from ordinary proteins. Our methodology is unique in the world, and has potential to create any kind of desired materials. For example, we synthesized protein nanoparticles that can replace quantum dots, polyelectrolytes that replace mineral acids in batteries. We collaborate extensively with other groups, and demonstrated protein-supercapacitors, biological batteries and DNA-LEDs. These biological materials are fully functional, yet degrade rapidly when released into the environment. Other projects include bio-Graphene, DNA/RNA Binders, bio-Solar cells, Nano-armored Enzymes, molecular micelles and wearable biosensors.