Yu Sun, microtechnology and nanotechnology leader

Professor Yu Sun is an international leader in developing robotics and automation technologies for manipulating biomaterials, such as precision instrumentation capable of injecting molecules into biological cells.

Sun's research is revolutionizing how genetic studies, cancer research and clinical cell surgery and diagnostics are conducted. A professor in the University of Toronto’s Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Sun is jointly appointed in the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering and the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering.

Sun founded the Advanced Micro and Nanosystems Laboratory where today he directs research that ranges from fundamental science to applied biotechnology and emerging engineering issues. He is director of U of T's Emerging Communications Technologies Institute. 

A three time winner of U of T’s Connaught Innovation Award (2011, 2012, 2013) Sun is one of three U of T faculty members awarded an E. W. R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council this year. The fellowships were created to enhance the career development of outstanding and highly promising scientists and engineers who are faculty members of Canadian universities.

U of T News asked Sun about his work and the implications it holds for future generations.

Tell us about your research.
My group develops machines/instruments that operate at micro- and nanometer scales. We study fundamental and applied aspects of micro-nano robotics and device technologies. We use our automated instruments to manipulate and characterize cells, molecules, and nanomaterials under optical and electron microscopes. The purpose is two-fold, to answer basic science questions (e.g., protein and gene functions; nanomaterial properties) and to solve practical clinical and industrial applications (e.g., blood cell testing; precision manufacturing).

What kind of impact could this research have for society?
Micro-nano engineering impacts our lives in many tangible ways. For instance, new microdevices and instruments are enabling less invasive surgery; better, cheaper disease diagnostics; safer transportation with intelligent micro sensors; better product quality from precision manufacturing etc.

What sort of changes/developments have you witnessed over the course of your career?
The overall area of micro-nanotechnologies is so dynamic that many ‘fantastic-voyage’ ideas quickly evolve through the process of ‘sounds impossible’, ‘concept proven’, and ‘move on to become a product’. This dynamic nature is fascinating and will continue to drive the field forward and inspire generations of micro-nanotechnologists.

What drew you to this field – and to this particular focus?
Micro-nanorobotics and micro-nanodevices are relatively new areas that progress at an extraordinary pace. I am grateful to my Ph.D. adviser for leading me to these fascinating areas that are filled with challenges and opportunities.

Why U of T?
U of T has tremendous resources to offer for any research one can think of. The university gave me endless opportunities to work with many exceptionally talented graduate students and postdocs. I have a group of wonderful collaborators across the university. I also truly enjoy the collegial and supportive environment in my department (mechanical & industrial engineering) and faculty (engineering).  

What advice would you give to a student just starting out in this field?
Innovative/discovery-driven and practical/useful are not exclusive in micro-nano engineering. Be creative, be practical.