Dr. Thao Nguyen

Biography

Thao (Vicky) Nguyen is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, specializing in biomechanics and the mechanics of soft materials. Her research employs an integrated experimental and modeling approach to study adaptive materials that exhibit significant changes in microstructure and mechanical properties in response to environmental stimuli. She focuses on the biomechanics of fibrous soft tissues, constitutive modeling of shape memory polymers, and the fracture mechanics of rate-dependent materials. Nguyen has developed innovative experimental tools and models that investigate the fundamental microscale mechanisms governing the behavior of soft adaptive materials. Her research has led to the design guidelines for creating shape-shifting biomedical devices, including materials that interact with the body to secure tendons and function in “smart” medical devices. With expertise in complex mechanics, Nguyen has collaborated on projects studying the role of the sclera and cornea in the development of glaucoma. Her work has received funding from the Department of Defense, National Eye Institute, and the National Science Foundation. Nguyen's accolades include the James R. Rice Medal from the Society of Engineering Science and several awards from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. She also holds a secondary appointment in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards