The Hillmyer research group focuses on the design, synthesis, characterization, and applications of advanced macromolecular materials. We strive to establish structure-property relationships and to discover and develop technologically important applications of polymers. We use modern polymer synthesis techniques that include various controlled polymerizations and selective polymer modifications, and these synthetic efforts provide the foundation for most projects. Ultimately, we aim to combine contemporary polymer synthesis with detailed molecular, morphological and property characterization to expand our knowledge of fundamental polymer science and advance new technologies.

Our spotlight areas of research include the development of sustainable polymers from renewable resources and hybrid macromolecular structures that combine disparate polymeric elements into a single compound. As project areas are often interrelated, our group encourages and embraces collaboration. In addition to collaborations between members of the Hillmyer group, several formal cooperative relationships have been established with several other research groups at the University of Minnesota. The overall polymer science effort at the University of Minnesota is wide-ranging, and the extensive infrastructure and collaborative nature of the faculty truly fosters a unique research environment.