M Stanley Whittingham

M. Stanley Whittingham's research interest and expertise includes elucidation of the limiting mechanisms, chemical and structural, of intercalation reactions using a variety of synthetic and characterization approaches, both in-situ and ex-situ. Development of new materials and new synthetic approaches.

Whittingham was recently awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his development of lithium-ion batteries. He and his team discovered that holding lithium ions between plates of titanium sulfide created electricity. The lightweight lithium-ion batteries power laptops, tablets, cellphones and most electric cars. They have laid the foundation for a wireless, fossil fuel-free society.

The research interests of the materials chemistry group are in the preparation and chemical and physical properties of novel inorganic oxide materials. Much of their effort is targeted at finding new materials for advancing energy storage. Recently, they have discerned the critical role that single-phase reactions play in the discharge of battery electrodes. Their goal is to significantly improve the storage ability of electrochemical devices so as to make renewable solar and wind energy viable and to enable electric vehicle range and cost. Their research involves much materials characterization at the major National Laboratories.

Education

DPhil, Chemistry, Oxford University, England MA, Oxford University, England BA, Chemistry, Oxford University, England

Awards

Nobel Prize in Chemistry, 2019 Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities, 2006-2007 Thomson Reuters Citation Laureate, 2015 ISSI Senior Scientist Award, 2017 Member National Academy of Engineering, 2018 Turnbull Award, Materials Research Society, 2018