One thrust of our research is aimed at improving technologies that store and convert energy. We utilize a first principles approach to elucidate the mechanisms that govern electrochemical reactions in electroactive materials. Fundamental insights provide invaluable guidance in the design of new electrode and electrolyte chemistries.

A large component of our research focuses on fundamental and applied studies of the thermodynamic, kinetic and mechanical properties of electro-active materials used in electrochemical energy storage applications. We seek to establish the connection between chemistry and structure, both crystallographic and morphological, on the transport and phase transformation mechanisms in electrodes for Li-ion and multivalent batteries.