Luke Saunders | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Luke Saunders | Electrochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr., Newcastle university, United Kingdom

Luke Saunders is a dynamic researcher specializing in electrochemistry, electrical machines, and battery technology. Currently serving as a Post-Doctoral Research Associate at Newcastle University, Luke is contributing to the Future Electrical Machines and Manufacturing Hub, focusing on advancing electric motor performance and manufacturing innovation. His career reflects a blend of academic rigor and industrial relevance, with previous impactful roles at The Faraday Institution and Heraeus Quartz UK. He has worked extensively on lithium-ion battery degradation and amperometric gas sensor technologies. Luke’s research integrates experimental work with computational analysis, aiming to accelerate the adoption of next-generation technologies. He has published multiple papers in internationally recognized journals and has presented his work at prominent conferences. Beyond his research, Luke is actively involved in mentoring PhD students, supporting undergraduates, and contributing to university-level ethical committees. He is also pursuing his HEA teaching fellowship, demonstrating his commitment to excellence in both research and education.

Publication Profile

🎓 Education 

Luke Saunders completed his PhD at Newcastle University, focusing on amperometric gas sensors in collaboration with Alphasense Sensor Technologies. His doctoral research emphasized the diffusion behavior of volatile organic compounds through specially designed semi-permeable membranes, combining both laboratory experiments and computational analysis. This industry-sponsored project allowed him to present regularly to senior stakeholders, bridging the gap between academic inquiry and real-world applications. Luke’s solid academic foundation in electrochemistry, sensor technology, and materials science underpins his versatile research portfolio. While the specific undergraduate and master’s education details are not provided, his progression into multi-disciplinary postdoctoral roles and a significant industrial engineering position reflect a strong educational background in chemical or electrical engineering. His current pursuit of the HEA teaching fellowship further highlights his ongoing commitment to both educational development and research excellence, aiming to contribute comprehensively to academia as a researcher, mentor, and future educator.

💼 Experience

Luke Saunders brings a rich blend of academic and industrial experience across multiple high-impact projects. At Newcastle University (2023–2026), he contributes to electric motor innovation as part of the Future Electrical Machines and Manufacturing Hub, collaborating internationally and mentoring young researchers. Previously, at the Faraday Institution (2020–2021), he investigated lithium-ion battery degradation, mastering electrochemical techniques and complex data analysis. From 2022 to 2023, he worked as a Production Engineer at Heraeus Quartz UK, managing process improvement projects for high-grade quartz manufacturing, delivering engineering solutions, and supporting health and safety initiatives. His PhD research (2014–2020) explored amperometric gas sensors, conducted in collaboration with Alphasense Sensor Technologies. Luke has consistently demonstrated leadership, teamwork, and technical expertise, contributing to both fundamental science and industrial applications. His experience encompasses project management, cross-functional collaborations, mentoring PhD and undergraduate students, and presenting at international conferences, positioning him as a well-rounded and impactful researcher.

🔬 Research Focus

Luke Saunders’ research primarily focuses on electrochemistry, energy storage systems, and the performance of advanced electrical machines. His recent work targets the development of novel electric motor designs with enhanced efficiency, durability, and manufacturability, contributing to the global push for sustainable transportation solutions. His earlier research delved into the degradation mechanisms of lithium-ion batteries, where he utilized advanced electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and large-scale data interpretation to uncover failure patterns. Luke’s PhD work in amperometric gas sensors emphasized improving sensor selectivity and response times using tailored semi-permeable membranes. His cross-disciplinary expertise allows him to navigate between materials science, chemical engineering, and electrical engineering, enabling innovative solutions to industry-relevant problems. Through active collaborations with industrial partners and multinational research hubs, Luke aims to accelerate the translation of laboratory discoveries into practical applications. His future research interests include green manufacturing processes, next-generation energy systems, and enhancing the sustainability of electrochemical technologies.

📚 Publication Top Notes

1. Evaluating Single-Crystal and Polycrystalline NMC811 Electrodes in Lithium-Ion Cells via Non-Destructive EIS Alone

Journal: Journal of Applied Electrochemistry
Publication Date: September 2022
DOI: 10.1007/s10800-022-01713-x
Authors: Luke Saunders, Jiabin Wang, Ulrich Stimming
Summary:
This study evaluates the performance of NMC811 electrodes in lithium-ion batteries using non-destructive electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The work compares single-crystal and polycrystalline structures to understand how microstructural differences influence battery life and degradation. The research highlights the benefits of using non-invasive diagnostic tools for assessing battery health, which can improve battery management systems and enhance operational safety.

2. Differentiating Degradation Characteristics in Lithium-Ion Cells

Journal: Journal of The Electrochemical Society
Publication Date: November 2021
DOI: 10.1149/1945-7111/ac3851
Authors: Luke Saunders, Jiabin Wang, Ulrich Stimming
Summary:
This paper investigates the distinct degradation pathways in lithium-ion cells under various operational conditions. By employing electrochemical techniques, the study differentiates the key factors contributing to capacity fade and impedance rise. The findings offer valuable insights for improving battery longevity and inform the design of more robust battery systems for future applications.

Conclusion

Luke Saunders demonstrates strong potential and is highly suitable for a Best Researcher Award at an early to mid-career level. His multidisciplinary research, industrial relevance, leadership in mentoring, and significant collaborative efforts position him as a valuable researcher with impactful contributions. To elevate his candidacy to a truly outstanding level, focusing on independent grant acquisition, completing teaching credentials, and further expanding his international research footprint would be beneficial.

 

Vilas Pol | Batteries | Excellence in Research

Prof. Vilas Pol | Batteries | Excellence in Research

Professor, Purdue University, United States

Prof. Vilas Pol is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of chemical engineering and energy storage systems. Currently, he serves as a Professor at the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering, Purdue University. With a focus on sustainable energy technologies, his work integrates materials science, electrochemical energy storage, and battery technologies. He has received multiple prestigious awards, including the 2024 Asian American Engineer of the Year and the 2024 Fellowship of the Royal Society of Chemistry. His research also covers energy storage, sustainability, and nanomaterials for a better, greener future.

Profile

Education

Prof. Pol holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Bar-Ilan, Israel, where he worked in advanced materials and nanotechnology. He also completed his M.Phil. and M.Sc. in Chemistry at the University of Pune, India. His early academic foundation laid the groundwork for a career that integrates chemistry, materials science, and engineering. His extensive education and expertise have contributed to innovative solutions in energy storage and chemical processes.

Experience

Prof. Pol has a rich professional journey that includes significant roles such as the Purdue University Faculty Scholar and an Adjunct Professor at IIT Indore. He has been associated with high-profile positions, including a materials scientist at Argonne National Laboratory and a visiting faculty at NIMS, Japan. His expertise spans lithium-ion batteries, energy storage materials, and electrochemical technologies. He has also held postdoctoral appointments, including work at the Intense Pulsed Neutron Source at Argonne National Laboratory, expanding his influence in scientific communities worldwide.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Pol’s remarkable achievements have earned him several prestigious accolades, including the 2024 Asian American Engineer of the Year, the Royal Society of Chemistry Fellowship, and recognition as one of Purdue University’s most impactful faculty inventors. Other notable awards include the 2021 AIChE Excellence in Process Development Research Award and the R&D 100 Award for “Versatile Hard Carbon Microspheres Made from Plastic Waste” (2015). His groundbreaking work has also resulted in multiple Guinness World Records, most recently for the fastest arrangement of elements in the periodic table in 2018.

Research Focus

Prof. Pol’s research revolves around sustainable energy technologies, including the development of advanced materials for energy storage applications such as lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries. He focuses on enhancing battery performance and safety, exploring novel materials like hard carbon microspheres from plastic waste, and improving electrochemical systems. His work in materials science aims to reduce the environmental impact of energy storage devices, driving innovation in clean and efficient technologies for a sustainable future.

Publications

  • Amorphous GeSnSe nanoparticles as a Li-Ion battery anode with High-Capacity and long cycle performance 🔋
  • Nonwoven fabric supported flame-retarding quasi-solid electrolyte for wider-temperature safer Li-ion battery 🔥
  • Operando Fabricated Quasi-Solid-State Electrolyte Hinders Polysulfide Shuttles in an Advanced Li-S Battery ⚡
  • Glory of Fire Retardants in Li-Ion Batteries: Could They Be Intrinsically Safer? 🔥
  • Inactivation kinetic parameters of hydrogen peroxide application in commercial sterility of aseptic processing systems 🧴
  • Ultrathin (15 nm) Carbon Sheets with Surface Oxygen Functionalization for Efficient Pseudocapacitive Na-ion Storage 💡
  • Innovative amorphous multiple anionic transition metal compound electrode for extreme environments (≤ −80 °C) battery operations 🏔️
  • Optimization of the Form Factors of Advanced Li-S Pouch Cells ⚡
  • Graphene triggered catalytic attack on plastic waste produces graphitic shell encapsulation on cobalt nanoparticles for ferromagnetism and stable Li+ ion storage 🔬
  • Enriched supercapacitive performance of electrochemically tailored β-Co(OH)2/CoOOH nanodiscs from sacrificial Co3(PO4)2·4H2O microbelts 🔋

Byoung-Suhk Kim | energy storage devices | Best Researcher Award

Prof Byoung-Suhk Kim | energy storage devices | Best Researcher Award

Prof Byoung-Suhk Kim, Jeonbuk National University, South Korea

Prof  Byoung-Suhk Kim is a distinguished Professor at Jeonbuk National University, Republic of Korea 🇰🇷. With expertise in materials engineering and a Ph.D. from Hokkaido University, Japan 🎓, he specializes in supercapacitors, transparent flexible electrodes, and electrocatalysts. His extensive international experience includes research roles in the USA, Germany, and Japan 🌍. As an editorial board member for several renowned journals, including ‘Energy and Catalysis’ and ‘Electrochemistry’, he contributes significantly to the field of nanomaterials and polymer science.

Publication Profile

Education

Byoung-Suhk Kim pursued his academic journey with a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Macromolecular Functions) from Hokkaido University 🎓 in 1999, preceded by an M.S. in Fiber Chemistry 🧪 from Jeonbuk National University, South Korea 🇰🇷 in 1995, and a B.S. in Textile Engineering 🧵 from the same university in 1993. His educational path equipped him with diverse expertise in polymer science and materials engineering, laying a strong foundation for his esteemed career as a professor and researcher in the field of carbon composites and organic materials.

Experience

Byoung-Suhk Kim has held a distinguished career path, currently serving as a Professor 🎓 at Jeonbuk National University, Republic of Korea 🇰🇷 since March 2012. His global experience includes roles such as Visiting Researcher 🌍 at the University of Pennsylvania, USA 🇺🇸 (2019-2020), Global COE researcher 🌐 at Shinshu University, Japan 🇯🇵 (2008-2012), and Principal Researcher at the Kumho Petrochemical R&BD Center 🧪 in Daejeon, Republic of Korea 🇰🇷 (2007-2008). He has also been a distinguished Alexander von Humboldt Research Fellow 🌐 at the Max-Planck Institute for Polymer Research in Germany 🇩🇪 (2003-2005) and held postdoctoral positions at the University of Connecticut, USA 🇺🇸, and Sogang University, South Korea 🇰🇷.

Research Focus

Byoung-Suhk Kim’s research focuses on advanced materials for energy and biomedical applications 🧬⚡️. His work prominently features electrospun nanofibers, exploring their synthesis and applications in supercapacitors and biomaterials. He investigates polymer blends, nanocomposites, and functional coatings, emphasizing properties like water stability, electrocatalytic activity, and mechanical performance. Kim’s contributions extend to scalable synthesis techniques for nanohybrids, enhancing devices such as flexible electrodes and biosensors. His interdisciplinary approach integrates polymer science with nanotechnology to address challenges in energy storage, sensing, and tissue engineering, aiming to develop sustainable and high-performance materials for diverse technological needs.