(6gr) Engineering Multifunctional Nanomaterials for Energy and the Environment

I am a materials scientist with extensive research experience in nanomaterials for applications in the field of energy and the environment. As an Assistant Professor, I am eager to bring in my interdisciplinary engineering expertise, my strength in building collaborations across multiple departments, and my proficiency in writing funding proposals. As an expert in the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials, with a Ph.D. in Materials Science from CentraleSupelec and Ecole Normale Superieure (Paris-Saclay, France), I believe I am an excellent candidate for a faculty position in a leading institution. I can contribute to original and strong core programs in materials science and engineering, centered on composite materials, energy-efficient systems for a sustainable environment, and materials for bioengineering. I have built a unique background in fundamental and applied research at Princeton, in synergy with leading materials industry, and have acquired extensive knowledge and research experience in the area of graphene and carbon nanotubes for diverse applications. At Princeton, I have contributed to fundamental research on the chemical routes for synthesizing graphene at industrial scale. My contributions have resulted in the production of graphene-reinforced rubber composites that are currently being commercialized by the world's largest graphene manufacturer Vorbeck Materials (a Princeton University spin-off), where I have held a joint researcher position. Additionally, for the manufacturer Reliance Industries Ltd, I have demonstrated the effect of functionalized graphene on energy-efficient automobile tires with low rolling resistance. My research on Li-ion batteries examines the multifunctional potential of graphene and other materials such as polymers and ceramics to extend their performance. Initially in the framework of an ARPA-E project, and later through partnership and full funding from a preeminent American electronics company, I have successfully demonstrated the role of graphene as a barrier to the formation of solid-electrolyte interphase at the anode level. This approach extends the life cycle of Li-ion batteries. Recently, I have been leading projects on the development of organic and inorganic materials for energy-efficient buildings with the aim of improving their cooling and heating performances. My goals in this area consist of revisiting the working principles of traditional HVAC systems, and exploring new approaches to achieve dehumidification and passive cooling through the production of innovative materials and concepts. In addition to successfully transferring technologies from lab to market, my research has benefited important industries and resulted in the publication of 13 journal articles, 1 book chapter, 3 patents, and over 20 conference publications, with over 400 citations. As an Assistant Professor, I plan to lead a multidisciplinary research group that will investigate the processing and application of nanomaterials, and be at the forefront in this domain.

Teaching Interests:

As an Assistant Professor, one of my objectives will be to create a classroom composed of curious and engaging students, who will be the driving force for deep interest in the material taught. I aim to build a classroom environment where students across diverse backgrounds can be incorporated to build a harmonious education platform. I advocate teaching a course from different angles, different perspectives, so as to attempt to capture or appeal to the different learning styles or backgrounds of the various students. My ultimate goal is to train my students to be critical thinkers capable of raising pertinent scientific questions, and more importantly to propose answers, to innovate, and to advance science. I would be delighted to teach a variety of courses such as Structure and Properties of Materials, Synthesis and Applications of Polymers, or Energy Storage Systems. My passion and experience in materials science, fundamental and applied, inspire me to motivate and mentor the next generation of students in their careers.