Design and synthesis of redox-active molecules for flow battery energy storage

The global transition to net-zero carbon emissions necessitates efficient energy storage systems to overcome the inherent intermittency of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Redox flow batteries are an emerging technology well suited to grid-scale energy storage owing to their distinct features of decoupled energy and power, long discharge duration at rated power, and inherently safe operation. However, the widespread adoption of traditional vanadium flow batteries is hindered by the high cost and constrained supply chain of vanadium. Organic and organometallic materials have recently gained significant interest as cost-effective and sustainable alternatives for next-generation flow batteries. These materials offer structural tunability, high element abundance, and minimal environmental impact. This project focuses on developing redox-active organic/organometallic molecules with high water solubility, chemical and electrochemical stability, and suitable redox potential, using scalable and cost-effective synthesis methods.

The selected intern will (1) conduct organic synthesis and structural characterization of redox-active molecules (Schlenk line operation, NMR, UV-Vis, MS), (2) perform electrochemical tests (cyclic voltammetry, rotating disk electrode voltammetry) and (3) collaborate within the group to evaluate the materials in redox flow batteries. Through the internship, the candidate will gain hands-on experience in chemistry and electrochemistry, develop independent research skills, and enhance critical thinking for innovative problem-solving. Regular discussions will be arranged with the PI and one final written report is required.