The Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at the University of Colorado supports a research program on ferroelectric liquid crystals, as well as a wide range of educational activities, including K-8 outreach. The Center supports well maintained shared experimental facilities, which are accessible to outside users and also supports interactive efforts with industry and other sectors. The research is focused on three areas. These include the study of the molecular structure and macroscopic properties of liquid crystals; the control of interfaces and surfaces of liquid crystals with the goal to advance potential device applications; and the study of polymers and gels, which seeks to develop glassy liquid crystals for nonlinear optical applications. Participants in the Center currently include 10 senior investigators, 2 postdoctoral associates, 10 graduate students and 12 technicians and other support personnel. Professor Noel A. Clark directs the MRSEC.
