What’s your background?

I studied chemistry at Portland State University after receiving an associate degree in civil engineering from Portland Community College. After I got my BS in chemistry, I went on to pursue an MS in chemistry, with a focus on water-based nanoparticle synthetic techniques.

What do you specialize in at Polaris?

My initial focus was on graphite anode batch qualification. But I’ve since moved into Li-ion battery cell design, looking at standard cathode/anode materials and some alternatives to standard graphite anodes. I’ve also been delving into more unique battery chemistries, such as Li-S cells, coated separator materials, and even K-ion cathode materials. I’d say I’m a sort of “Jack of all trades” here, because I’ve had the pleasure to work on such a wide variety of projects.

What’s your favorite thing about working here?

I get to work in an industry that I’ve wanted to be in ever since I started my journey into chemistry. The global energy sector is vast and unique, and as a scientist working in battery technology development, I’m right in the middle of it all. It’s a pretty special experience, especially because I also get to work with such an amazing team.

What can we catch you doing outside of work?

Playing video/tabletop games or doing some dungeon-crawling with friends in a session of DnD. I also enjoy listening to podcasts and watching sci-fi, fantasy, and horror movies and shows. Plus, I’m a metalhead, through and through. So you can often find me in a crowded, dingy club catching some of my favorite death metal bands.