

Research
The Callmann group designs and develops functional glycomaterials to address pressing global challenges. Our work encompasses three interconnected research areas: (1) the chemistry of glycopolymers, (2) controlling glycomaterials properties, and (3) engineering glycan-based systems for targeted applications. Starting from a chemistry-driven, first-principles approach, we design new glycomonomers and polymer architectures to achieve precise, molecular-level control over macromolecular structure and functionality. Building on this foundation, we investigate how composition dictates material behavior in complex environments and develop smart, adaptive glycopolymers that respond dynamically to environmental cues such as pH, temperature, light, or biological stimuli. Finally, we apply these materials to solve high-impact challenges in biomedicine and the environment, including glycopolymers for water remediation, metal capture, antibiofilm formation, and novel therapeutic strategies in targeted drug delivery and cancer immunotherapy. Our overarching goal is to integrate principles from chemistry, biology, and materials science to advance glycoscience and provide practical solutions for critical issues in human health, energy, and the environment.
Tailored Glycopolymer Synthesis
This research area focuses on the chemistry behind glycopolymer development, emphasizing the control of polymer architecture and the design of new glycomonomers and glycomaterials. We are particularly focused on developing a comprehensive understanding of how polymer structure influences their properties across multiple scales and through diverse mechanisms. By tuning both molecular and macromolecular structure, our goal is to develop glycopolymers with precise functionality for myriad applications.

Smart, Adaptive Glycomaterials
The materials properties area investigates how glycopolymer structure governs material behavior in complex environments. Our goal is to develop adaptable and programmable glycomaterials with controlled and predictable properties. In particular, we focus on designing adaptive glycomaterials that change their structure or properties in response to external cues, such as pH, temperature, light, or biological stimuli.

Addressing Global Challenges with Glycoscience
Our research in this area applies glycopolymers to real-world challenges in biomedicine and the environment. We are developing glycopolymers as therapeutics, targeted drug delivery systems, and antibacterial agents for healthcare applications. In the environmental arena, we are developing glycomaterials for water purification, rare earth element (REE) capture, and pollution management, offering novel solutions for critical global issues.
