Dr. Wendy Gu's group studies the mechanical behavior of nanomaterials. They work at the intersection of solid mechanics, materials science and nano-chemistry. They research the unique properties of nanoscale metals, ceramics and nano-architected composites in order to design strong, tough and lightweight structural materials, materials for extreme environments, and mechanically-actuated sensors. The Gu group's experimental tools include nanoindentation, electron microscopy, and colloidal synthesis.