Jennifer Schaefer

Jennifer Schaefer is an Associate Professor at the Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Notre Dame. She is affiliated with the McCourtney Hall of Molecular Science & Engineering and focuses on ion transport and electrochemical processes for sustainable energy applications.

• Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from Cornell University (2014)
• M.Eng. and B.Ch.E. in Chemical Engineering from Widener University (2008)
• B.S. in Chemistry from Widener University (2008)

Her research develops novel polymer materials and membranes for advanced electrochemical energy storage and generation devices, emphasizing safety, sustainability, and performance. Key areas include polymer electrolytes, ion transport mechanisms, and energy storage systems for batteries.

Her publications from 2020 demonstrate expertise in single-ion conductors, gel electrolytes, and multivalent cation batteries (Li+, Na+, K+, Ca2+). These works explore polymer chemistry effects, solvent interactions, and interface engineering.

• Burns Award for outstanding doctoral student mentorship (2024)
• Catherine F. Pieronek Women in Engineering Impact Award (2021)

As a faculty member, Schaefer contributes to Notre Dame's energy research initiatives and leads the Schaefer Research Group, which aligns with the university's focus on sustainable technologies.