Jessica D. Schiffman

Current Research

The Schiffman lab is an interdisciplinary and imaginative research group that designs and applies “greener” materials toward new solutions to grand challenges in human health. To achieve this goal, we have two synergistic research thrusts. In Thrust 1, Materials from biopolymers and bioactive molecules, we fundamentally prove the historically recognized intrinsic properties of biopolymers and bioactive agents by employing modern characterization techniques. With a nuanced understanding of their properties, i.e., antibacterial activity, metal ion selectivity, corrosion inhibition, we synthesize new materials that enhance their functionalities using structure-property relationships. In Thrust 2, Fundamental studies at the materials-microorganism interface, we bring an excellent understanding of materials science and engineering to the world of microbiology. We have established materials-based strategies to deter microbial contamination by studying how bacteria and microbial communities interact with materials, such as, coatings, hydrogels, membranes, and nanofibers. This work addresses the grand challenge humanity faces as microorganisms continue to gain tolerance to commercial drugs.

Learn more at www.umass.edu/schiffman/

Academic Background

• BS Rutgers University, 2003

• M Eng Cornell University, 2004

• PhD Drexel University, 2009

• Postdoctoral Training: Yale University, 2009-2011