Austin Sendek

Austin Sendek serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Stanford University, where he applies machine learning and AI to accelerate materials discovery for decarbonization. He is the Founder and CEO of Aionics, Inc., a company specializing in AI-driven battery design using high-performance computing. At Stanford, he collaborates on research initiatives spanning fundamental science to entrepreneurship mentoring.

His academic background includes:

• B.S. in Applied Physics, UC Davis
• Ph.D. in Applied Physics, Stanford University

Sendek's research focuses on computational materials science for battery technologies. He develops machine learning models to predict material properties, design solid-state electrolytes, and optimize battery performance. His work integrates quantum mechanical simulations with experimental data to overcome challenges in the small data regime, aiming to expedite next-generation energy storage solutions.

His publication record demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing battery materials through interdisciplinary approaches. Recent work emphasizes machine learning applications for solid electrolyte discovery, interface engineering, and cathode material design. The research consistently addresses critical barriers in solid-state batteries, such as ionic conductivity and stability, while leveraging data-driven methods to navigate vast materials spaces.

Awards:

• Forbes 30 Under 30 in Energy (2019)

Sendek has mentored students as a Guest Lecturer at Columbia University and through Stanford affiliations. His leadership at Aionics, Inc., fosters a collaborative environment for AI and battery research, facilitating industry-academia partnerships and grant-funded projects.

He directs Aionics, Inc., which operates at the intersection of AI and battery innovation. At Stanford, he engages with research teams to bridge computational discovery and practical battery applications.