Dr. Efstathios Mitropoulos

Projects

Embedded micro-fluidic networks in soft materials systems: A route to adaptive processes, self-regulation and self-repair
I am currently developing dendritic microfluidic structures that are optimized for different physiochemical and transport functions. In addition, inspired by vascular systems in nature and by taking advantage of the properties of soft matter, I am working to give these structures desirable elasticity-based functionalities that could allow for a drastic change of form and function in response to different stimuli. The final goal of the project is to embed said structures in materials, thus providing mechanisms for the reaction to effects such as mechanical damage, and for maintaining and regulating functionality when such effects occur.

First supervisor

Prof. Dr. Thomas Pfohl

Efstathios Mitropoulos completed his dissertation in March 2026.

Dissertation: Hydro-elastic manipulation of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluid flows in dendritic networks

Publications in livMatS

• How channel elasticity enhances and directs flow in dendritic microfluidic networks*
  Mitropoulos, E., Stamp, C. H., Marbini, A., Milster, S., Dzubiella, J., & Pfohl, T. (2025). How channel elasticity enhances and directs flow in dendritic microfluidic networks. Microsyst Nanoeng, 11, 254 (2025). doi: 10.1038/s41378-025-01078-z
• Tuning the hydraulic resistance by swelling-induced buckling of membranes in high-aspect-ratio microfluidic devices*
  Stamp, C. H., Solomon, B., Lang, F., Mitropoulos, E., & Pfohl, T. (2023). Tuning the hydraulic resistance by swelling-induced buckling of membranes in high-aspect-ratio microfluidic devices. Lab on a Chip, 23(16), 3662-3670. doi: 10.1039/D2LC01120D