About the Lab
Torsten Brezesinski’s lab focuses on the design, synthesis, and characterization of advanced materials for electrochemical energy storage and conversion. A central research goal is to understand and control structure–property relationships in battery materials, particularly for next-generation solid-state batteries and high-energy lithium- and sodium-ion systems.
The lab works on a broad range of functional materials, including Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes, halide and sulfide solid electrolytes, lithium–sulfur systems, and nanostructured and mesoporous oxide thin films. A strong emphasis is placed on interfaces and degradation mechanisms, such as interfacial kinetics, chemo-mechanical stability, first-cycle capacity loss, and surface reconstruction under demanding operating conditions. To address these challenges, the lab combines rational materials synthesis strategies—such as coating, doping, melt infiltration, and soft-templating—with advanced electrochemical testing and in situ and operando characterization techniques.
Applications of this research are directly linked to pressing societal challenges, including safer and more sustainable batteries for electric mobility, grid-scale energy storage, and renewable energy integration. The lab also contributes to circular battery concepts by investigating materials derived from primary and secondary raw resources.
The lab is an excellent fit for students interested in materials chemistry, energy research, or solid-state electrochemistry. Ideal candidates enjoy interdisciplinary work, hands-on experiments, and linking fundamental materials science with real-world energy-storage applications.