Christopher Alabi is a faculty member in the Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. 

He received his B.S. and B.E. in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from NYU and Stevens Institute of Technology, and his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Caltech, where he conducted research under the guidance of Mark Davis. In 2009, he pursued an NIH Postdoctoral fellowship at MIT working with Robert Langer. He joined the Cornell faculty in 2013 and is currently an Associate Professor and the Director of Graduate Studies in the School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

Research in the Alabi lab focuses on the design and synthesis of precision polymers and nanoparticles for applications in biotechnology and medicine. His lab is known for pioneering work in developing novel macromolecules that can interact with biological systems in highly specific ways, leading to innovations in drug delivery, antimicrobial therapies, and gene editing. His passion for research and education continues to inspire the next generation of engineers and scientists.

In addition to his research, Chris Alabi is a dedicated educator, mentoring students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. He is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within his lab and the broader Cornell community. Acknowledging his commitment to teaching and mentorship, he received the 2017 Tau Beta Pi Professor of the Year Award, the 2022 Richard F. Tucker Excellence in Teaching Award, and more recently, the 2024 EPICC Award for Purpose.

When Chris isn’t in his office or the lab, you’ll likely find him on the soccer field, cheering on his sons or joining a pickup game at a much more relaxed pace. A devoted Manchester United fan, he fondly reminisces about the glory days under Ferguson’s leadership. Beyond soccer, Chris has a passion for ping pong and treasures quality time with his wife, Sarah, their kids, and their beloved dog, Charlie.