Andreas Walther (Johannes Gutenberg University)

Living systems excel at operating far from equilibrium, integrating sensing, processing, and actuation through feedback-regulated metabolic networks to adapt and communicate within complex environments. Inspired by these principles, our research develops life-like materials and artificial cell systems that embed embodied intelligence into soft matter. We explore hydrogels and metamaterials empowered by chemical reaction networks, enzymatic feedback, and mechanical gating to achieve autonomous decision-making, self-strengthening behavior, and non-reciprocal motion. In parallel, we design DNA-based artificial cells formed via liquid–liquid phase separation, which host artificial cytoskeletons, display non-Fickian transport, and integrate catalytic and DNAzyme modules to enable metabolism-driven morphological adaptation. These complementary directions converge on a vision of synthetic systems that do not merely respond passively but actively process information, adapt over time, and communicate with their environment. Together, they lay the foundations for programmable materials and minimal artificial cells that approach the complexity and interactive potential of living matter.