Cohen's research combines building physical tools to probe biological molecules, using nanofabrication, lasers, microfluidics, electronics and biochemistry to generate data.
In high school, Cohen created an eye-tracking apparatus for neuroscience experiments to benefit the disabled, an electrochemical hard disk drive,[4] and a device that applies physics to allow his eye movements to maneuver his computer cursor.
[8] He also invented and built a nanoscale patterning technique using an electrochemical scanning tunneling microscope in his bedroom, which led to winning the Westinghouse Science Talent Search.
[9][10] His success in the Westinghouse competition led then-mayor of New York City, Rudy Giuliani, to declare March 12, 1997 "Adam Ezra Cohen Day".
On their first trip in June 2009, the two toured the nation, while in 2010 they conducted an intensive training program at the University of Liberia that combined science basics, classroom teaching, laboratory techniques, and independent research.