In today’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Sam Cooper, an associate professor in AI for materials design at Imperial College London’s Dyson School of Design Engineering. Dr. Cooper’s journey is a fascinating one, moving from mechanical engineering into the world of artificial intelligence and energy storage. He shares his experiences, insights, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career path, from his early interest in nuclear reactor physics to becoming a key figure in next-generation battery and fuel cell technologies. We discuss the challenges, innovations, and the future of energy storage, highlighting how computational methods can revolutionise material design.
🎧 Listen on:
➡ Youtube :https://youtu.be/Dx4yhwgV34o
Key Topics Covered:
Dr. Sam Cooper's Journey:
How Dr. Cooper’s early interest in mechanical engineering and nuclear physics led him to material science.
His shift from nuclear research to energy storage, driven by a desire to solve real-world problems with innovative materials.
Insights on the decision to focus on fuel cells and batteries, and how his academic mentors shaped this path.
The Role of Material Science in Energy Storage:
Exploring the critical challenges in energy storage technologies and how advanced material design can address them.
Dr. Cooper’s work on microstructure analysis and its impact on improving battery and fuel cell efficiency.
The convergence of computational methods and material science in solving complex energy problems.
Innovations in Battery Design and Characterization:
An in-depth look at how next-generation batteries are being developed, with a focus on material optimization and microstructural analysis.
The transition from traditional batteries to open systems like fuel cells, which utilize hydrogen for sustainable energy solutions.
Advice for Aspiring Engineers and Researchers:
Dr. Cooper shares his tips for choosing projects and mentors, emphasizing the importance of passion and alignment with inspirational leaders.
The significance of collaboration, interdisciplinary research, and embracing new technologies in advancing the field of energy storage.
Key Quotes:
“Getting the materials right is the key to solving many of the pressing challenges in energy storage.”
“The intersection of computational methods and material design is where real innovation happens in battery technology.”
Key Takeaways:
The integration of computational methods with material design is critical in solving energy storage challenges.
Understanding the microstructure of materials can lead to breakthroughs in battery and fuel cell performance.
The transition to hydrogen fuel cells offers promising avenues for sustainable energy solutions.
Resources and Links:
Dr. Sam Cooper’s Profile at Imperial College London
Polaron
Li-ion battery design through microstructural optimization using generative AI -
Github -
Coursera - Mathematics for Machine Learning Specialization
Imperial College London – Dyson School of Design Engineering-
@mentioned:
Dr. Sam Cooper: Leading researcher at the Dyson School of Design Engineering, Imperial College London.
Dyson School of Design Engineering: Part of Imperial College, focusing on interdisciplinary research in design and engineering.
Fred Marquis: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Fred-Marquis
Mary Ryan:
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