Benjamin Paren

My research vision is to develop safe, high-performing polymer electrolytes for electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems, which are critical for the transition to an all-renewable energy grid. Our lab uses an understanding of nanoscale properties to inform rational design of polymer electrolytes for use in electrochemically-active assemblies. Our interdisciplinary team will focus on characterizing and developing polymer electrolytes for technologies that utilize resource-abundant or low-cost materials, such as Na and Mg-based batteries, and anion exchange membrane fuel cells. Common experimental techniques used by our group include X-ray scattering (structural characterization), dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (polymer and ion dynamics), and electrochemical testing. We are always open to considering collaboration (experimental and computational) on both related and unrelated topics, particularly if the research fall under the umbrella of polymer structure and dynamics or materials for energy.

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Research Laboratory of Electronics - Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2021-2023)

Assistant Professor - Chemical Engineering and Materials Science - Stevens Institute of Technology (2023 - Present)