Research
Our network unites faculty dedicated to advancing research aimed at addressing the global challenge of energy transition. Through innovative approaches, faculty are developing sustainable technologies, systems, and strategies that can mitigate environmental impacts and promote a more resilient future. Their work is characterized by cross-disciplinary collaboration, integrating scientific discovery with practical applications to shape the future of clean energy, environmental stewardship, and resilience. This research aims to create scalable, impactful solutions that will help build a sustainable future for generations to come.
Energy Storage
Shirley Meng’s work pioneers in discovering and designing better materials for energy storage by a unique combination of first-principles computation guided materials discovery and design, and advanced characterization with electron/neutron/photon sources.
Chibueze Amanchukwu’s research in electrolytes coupled with his lab’s understanding of ion transport and electrochemical degradation will enable the fabrication of batteries with high energy density and longer cycle life. Right now, they are focused on lithium metal batteries (with liquid and hybrid solid state electrolytes), high voltage lithium-ion, and dual-ion batteries (for long duration storage).
Po-Chun Hsu’s research focuses on innovative dynamic materials for light and heat management. By utilizing fundamental principles of materials science and photonic engineering, his group aims to boost the thermoregulation performance and functionality for applications in wearable technology, net-zero energy buildings, carbon capture, and beyond.
Shrayesh Patel’s research focuses on functional polymeric materials (e.g. electronic conductors, ion conductors, redox-active) for energy conversion and storage applications. The current focus is on batteries and thermoelectrics. They have a strong expertise in the characterization of polymers that allows us to understand charge transport, electrochemical, and morphological properties.
Sustainable Materials
Sihong Wang’s research focuses on the development of biomimetic polymer electronics and bio-energy harvesting for interfacing with the human body and other biological systems as wearable and implantable devices.
Bozhi Tian’s research leverages diverse material synthesis and device design principles, uncovers numerous signal transduction mechanisms at bioelectronic and biophotonic interfaces, and pushes boundaries in organelle-level biointerfaces.
