Freddy Ramon

Hello, I’m Freddy, a sophomore in Morse College from Long Beach, NY, and I’m interested in majoring in mechanical engineering. My research project focuses on developing Liquid Crystal Elastomers (LCEs) as man-made extracellular matrix (ECM) mimics. LCEs are a special class of substrates that can undergo shape morphs in response to external stimuli such as light, heat, and humidity. 

My goal is to create substrates or LCEs that can exert mechanical stimuli on cells in an in vitro setting and study how the mechanical properties of the ECM influence cell behaviors. Specifically, I aim to vary the ratio of monoacrylates to diacrylates in the LCE, fabricate substrates with different actuation modes through photopatterning techniques, and capture the substrate’s deformation. Additionally, I will tune the substrate softness and test different conditions (temperature or light intensity) for actuation. 

Apart from my research, I enjoy swimming, playing basketball, and watching football with friends and family. I’m a big fan of the New York Jets. I also love spending time with my two dogs, Rocky and Scout.