We are an experimental group interested in liquid crystals. Our research develops in two main directions. We study how topological defects form in liquid crystals, how they can be controlled and manipulated, and how they can be useful for optics, for example creating “soft” micro-lenses or waveguides. We are also interested in exploring the analogy between liquid crystals and layers of living cells and the role of topological defects in the self-organization of tissues.
Examples of research topics: formation and analysis of topological defects in layers of cells; behavior of various cell types near topological defects; formation of liquid crystal topological defects in micro-confinement; liquid crystal defects as micro-lenses; patterns of topological defects as diffraction gratings.

For more information please visit Francesca’s personal website here.