Gary Harlow

Gary Harlow is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of Oregon, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Oregon Center for Electrochemistry. He is affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences and leads an active research group focused on fundamental electrochemical interfaces using advanced synchrotron-based and surface-sensitive techniques.

• B.Sc. (Hons) Physics, University of Glasgow, UK, 2015
• Ph.D. Physics, University of Liverpool, UK, 2016
• Postdoctoral Research, University of Lund, Sweden, 2016–2018 and 2018–2020
• Postdoctoral Research, University of Copenhagen, Denmark, 2020
• Project Scientist, Malmö University and MAXIV Synchrotron, Sweden, 2021–2022

Prof. Harlow's research centers on understanding the structure-function relationships at electrochemical interfaces. His work spans electrocatalysis, corrosion, double layer structure, and hierarchical nanostructures, combining electrochemistry, materials science, surface science, and data science. He specializes in in situ and operando techniques such as surface X-ray diffraction, single-crystal electrochemistry, and grazing incidence XAFS. A key focus is developing new methodologies and instrumentation, including the HAT software toolkit for diffraction data analysis and custom electrochemical cells.

His recent publications highlight expertise in surface diffraction analysis, templated electrodeposition, and quantitative characterization of nanomaterials. These studies demonstrate a strong trend toward precise structural control and measurement under realistic operating conditions, with applications in energy conversion and storage. His group also investigates molecular modifications of electrodes and liquid structure at interfaces, pushing the frontiers of interfacial electrochemistry.

Prof. Harlow is actively involved in mentoring and education, supervising PhD and Master’s students, and teaching advanced courses such as CH 454/554 (Advanced Electrochemistry), CH 693 (Electrochemical Device Laboratory), and CH 694 (Applied Projects in Electrochemistry). He is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Basic Energy Sciences and leads the annual Oregon Center for Electrochemistry Conference, promoting inclusive access to electrochemical research. His lab includes current members Ziyan Yang and Collin Smith (PhD students), several Master’s students, and visiting researchers, fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.