A Conversation with Jonathan A. Victoria Camacho
Blending Engineering, Bioinnovation, and Teamwork
At the University of Puerto Rico–Mayagüez, the Theoretical Soft Matter & Fluid Mechanics Research Group is driven by one mission: transforming complex theory into real-world impact. Among its talented researchers, Jonathan A. Victoria Camacho stands out—not only for his innovative work but also for the inspiring journey that brought him here.
Jonathan’s path began in mechanical engineering and has evolved into cutting-edge bioengineering and soft matter physics, a transition that reflects both his personal passion and the growing importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing global challenges.
His interest in biomedicine first sparked during high school. Without a direct academic route at the time, he chose mechanical engineering as a foundation.
“Mechanical engineering is general and opens doors—from manufacturing to materials to biomedicine.”
As he advanced, Jonathan discovered bioengineering as the perfect bridge between physics, engineering, and biology.
“I loved seeing how I could connect physics and engineering to biology. That’s when I made the switch to bioengineering.”
This dual expertise now defines his work:
Mechanical engineering gives him tools to simulate and analyze physical systems.
Bioengineering ensures these solutions are biocompatible, safe, and practical for medical and environmental use.
“We used to select materials for particles in college. It mattered that they didn’t harm cells—bioengineering gave me the tools to understand that compatibility.”
Today, Jonathan experiments with magnetic Janus particles—microscopic colloids with unique properties on each side. These particles can self-assemble under magnetic fields, shear stress, or chemical gradients.
“My work involves testing different parameters to control how these particles assemble or break apart. This knowledge helps us design nanoscale structures without traditional manufacturing.”
The potential applications span soft robotics, medical devices, and filtration systems—anywhere adaptable, precise material structures are needed. His research directly supports the group’s mission to design sustainable, multifunctional soft materials that respond to complex environments, much like biological systems.
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. Adjusting to the unique physics of colloidal systems was an early hurdle.
“You’re not dealing with the same forces as you are when moving a table or chair. Colloids behave differently—they’re unstable, dynamic.”
Another challenge: mastering Fortran to upgrade a decades-old simulation code.
“I came in knowing Python and MATLAB. Then, I had to learn Fortran to read a 20-year-old codebase, and I also upgrade it. It was tough, but it taught me so much.”
The Power of Collaboration
Beyond technical skills, Jonathan emphasizes the group’s collaborative spirit.
“When I joined, members like Ronal DeLaCruz helped me get started. Later, I mentored others, made workshops, and shared tools.”
Regular mentorship, informal coffee chats, and team-building meetings foster a supportive environment where knowledge flows freely. This culture—championed by Prof. Ubaldo Córdova-Figueroa—has shaped Jonathan’s professional growth.
“Ubaldo always encourages us to take opportunity’s to go to conferences, apply for internships, and collaborate with outside laboratories.”
Thanks to this support, Jonathan has presented across the U.S., collaborated with Prof. Ilona Freshman in New York, and validated his simulations through experiments.
“We found the experimental structures aligned with our theoretical predictions. That confirmed our models are not just accurate—they’re practical.”
Unlike many graduate students, Jonathan has benefited from the group’s resource management, never having to cover travel expenses personally.
Building the Future
Jonathan’s experience embodies the group’s broader goals:
Discover & Design – Create computational models, powered by AI, to predict how soft materials behave and self-assemble.
Create Real-World Impact – Apply these discoveries to healthcare, sustainability, advanced manufacturing, and robotics.
Empower Future Scientists – Build a strong, connected community where students grow into leaders.
With a special focus on Janus colloids, hybrid liquid crystals, and colloidal gels, the group is pushing forward technologies that can adapt to a rapidly changing world.
Would Jonathan recommend the group? Absolutely.
“It’s difficult at first, especially if you don’t have the background. But once you understand the process, you’ll find so much support here.”
And to collaborators and donors, his message is clear:
“We’re working on devices for real-world applications. With more support, we can explore patents, manufacturing, and scaling these innovations.”
Join or Support the Team
Whether you are a student, industry partner, researcher, or donor, the Theoretical Soft Matter & Fluid Mechanics Research Group welcomes your curiosity, collaboration, and investment in the future of soft matter research.
🔗 Join the research group: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/snqsAUfhiQ
🔗 Donate: https://www.ucfcolloids.org/donate