G. Jeffrey Snyder

Dr. G. Jeffrey Snyder is a Professor of Materials Science & Engineering at Northwestern University, specializing in thermoelectric materials and devices. His research focuses on enhancing energy efficiency through advanced materials engineering, including grain boundary engineering, band structure optimization, and Zintl phase exploration. Snyder holds a Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University, with prior degrees from Stanford and Cornell. His work spans thermoelectric transport phenomena, defect engineering, and scalable manufacturing of high-performance thermoelectric systems.

• Education:
• Ph.D. Applied Physics, Stanford University
• M.S. Applied Physics, Stanford University
• B.A., Cornell University

His research interests include thermoelectric materials for waste heat recovery, nanomaterials synthesis, and solid-state physics modeling. Snyder's contributions have advanced the understanding of thermal conductivity suppression, electronic band engineering, and high-temperature device applications. His group develops novel fabrication techniques like ink casting and 3D printing for commercialization of thermoelectric textiles and devices.

Key areas of focus include Zintl phases (e.g., Yb₁₄MnSb₁₁), topological insulators, and low-cost Cu-based chalcogenides. His recent work emphasizes hierarchical engineering principles and predictive modeling for segmented thermoelectric systems. Snyder collaborates with the PhD Program in Applied Physics and has pioneered grain boundary complexion engineering to simultaneously optimize electronic and phononic transport.

His research trends highlight innovations in material synthesis, defect control, and scalable production methods. Future work targets multifunctional thermoelectric textiles and high-efficiency energy conversion systems.