Susan Sinnott

Prof. Susan Sinnott is a Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Pennsylvania State University, affiliated with the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences. Her research focuses on computational methods for investigating atomic and molecular dynamics at surfaces and interfaces, particularly using the charge-optimized many-body (COMB3) potential framework. This approach enables modeling of systems with mixed metallic, ionic, and covalent bonding, applied to study water-metal interactions (e.g., Cu/Pt surfaces) and platinum nanoparticle dissolution under electrocatalytic conditions.

Her work is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (Award DE-SC0018646), targeting fundamental understanding of material behavior in energy-related applications such as fuel cells. Research interests span nanomaterial stability, reactive potential development, and interdisciplinary collaboration with interdepartmental groups. Professional contributions include seminars, collaborative research initiatives, and advancing computational tools for materials discovery.