Chulsung Bae

Chulsung Bae is a Ford Foundation Professor at the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology (with a joint appointment in Chemical & Biological Engineering) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He also serves as the Associate Director of the Center for Future Energy Systems (CFES).

• Education:
  • BS in Polymer Science & Engineering, Inha University
  • MS in Materials Science, POSTECH
  • MS in Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell
  • PhD in Chemistry, University of Southern California (under Surya Prakash and George Olah)
  • Postdoctoral Research, Yale University

Dr. Bae's research focuses on the development of functional polymeric materials for clean energy and environmental technologies, particularly ion-conducting polymers for energy conversion and gas separation membranes. His group employs synthetic organic chemistry tools to create innovative materials like polymer electrolytes for fuel cells and redox flow batteries.

Recent publications highlight advancements in bipolar membranes, water dissociation catalysts, and durable anion exchange membranes, reflecting his expertise in polymer functionalization and microstructured materials. Current projects include three-dimensionally micropatterned membranes and acid-degradable copolymers.

• Scientific Awards:
  • Trustee Celebration of Faculty Achievement (2014–2024)
  • Distinguished Member of Scientific Advisory Council, Advanced Energy Conference (2018)
  • RPI School of Science Outstanding Research Award (2016)
  • NSF CAREER Award (2008)
  • New Investigator Award, UNLV (2005)

Dr. Bae's research group includes current graduate students and former members who have transitioned to roles in academia, national labs, and industry. His work has received significant funding, including a $2.5 million ARPA-E contract in 2017 for solid ion-conducting materials.