J. Tyler Mefford

J. Tyler Mefford is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he leads the Mefford Group. His research focuses on electrochemical engineering, materials science, and renewable energy technologies.

• Education: BS in Chemistry from Stanford University (2012), PhD in Chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin (2016).

The Mefford Group develops redox-active polymers and inorganic electrode materials for applications in electrochemical energy conversion, storage, and chemical separations. Their work integrates material design, operando spectroscopy, microscopy, and computational modeling to study charge transfer at electrified interfaces.

Recent publications highlight advancements in aqueous battery technology, bifunctional electrocatalysis, and mixed-conducting polymer electrodes. The group emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and diversity in research environments.

• Scientific Awards:
  • 2020 Best In-situ and Operando Characterization Presentation Award, MRS
  • 2016 Excellence in Renewable & Clean Energy Research Award, UT Energy Institute
  • 2016 Nano Portfolio Presentation Award, University of Texas at Austin