Makatura’s research aims to create physical objects with exceptional behaviors and properties, such as sound/vibration dampening, surprising deformations, or extreme strength-to-weight ratios.

To create these effects, she studies the behavior of small, repeating geometric patterns called metamaterials. Her code designs and evaluates new metamaterial patterns, and then stacks them together like Legos to form functional 3d-printable objects. This approach can be applied to many exciting domains, including prosthetics, bone implants, energy management, and multi-functional parts for satellites and aircraft.

The project also contributes to sustainability by reducing material waste and energy consumption in manufacturing processes.