John Chris Bachman

John Chris Bachman is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering within the College of Engineering, Computer Science, and Technology at California State University, Los Angeles. He serves as Director of the ECST Makerspace and Principal Investigator of the Sustainable Technology Lab, where he leads research in electrochemical energy storage, sustainable engineering, and vehicle design. His work spans both academic research and practical applications, with collaborations including NASA/JPL, Stark Draper Labs, and the National Science Foundation.

Dr. Bachman's educational background includes:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2017), with a minor in Education. Dissertation: "Organic electrodes and solid-state electrolytes for lithium electrochemical energy storage"
• Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from University of California, Davis (2012). Thesis: "Experimental investigation and optimization of PEMFC (proton exchange membrane fuel cell) parallel flow fields"
• Bachelor of Science with Highest Honors in Mechanical Engineering from University of California, Davis (2010)

His research focuses on cutting-edge energy storage technologies, including batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers, and supercapacitors, with applications in sustainable engineering and vehicle design. A significant portion of his work involves electrochemical 3D printing and lunar exploration technologies through NASA collaborations. Dr. Bachman's Sustainable Technology Lab develops novel materials for renewable energy storage and low-cost electrochemical metal 3D printing, with applications ranging from terrestrial transportation to space exploration.

Dr. Bachman has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to engineering education and research:

• Fulbright US Scholar Award (2025)
• Cal State LA University Outstanding Professor Award (2023)
• SAE Ralph Teetor Excellence in Education Award (2022)
• Multiple Cal State LA Exceptional Service Awards (2019-2024)

As an educator and mentor, Dr. Bachman advises the Baja SAE team, Golden Eagle Makers (GEM), and Charging Eagles EV Team, guiding students through hands-on projects that solve real-world problems. His NASA/JPL collaborative grants support research on high-temperature lithium-ion batteries and lunar 3D printing, while his leadership of the ECST Makerspace has created a vibrant hub for innovation serving both campus and community members. Under his direction, the Sustainable Technology Lab has produced graduates who now pursue advanced degrees at top institutions including UC Berkeley, UCLA, Stanford, and Penn State.

Dr. Bachman directs the Innovation and Design Center overseeing the ECST Makerspace, serves as PI for multiple NASA/JPL collaborative grants, and is a senior member of the PREM and CREST CATSUS research centers. His Sustainable Technology Lab brings together students and researchers to develop practical solutions for energy storage challenges while preparing the next generation of engineering professionals.