Morgan Stefik

Morgan Stefik is the George H. Bunch Sr. Professor of Science and Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry at the University of South Carolina, within the McCausland College of Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on developing polymer-derived nanomaterials for energy applications, leveraging self-assembly techniques to create tunable materials with precise nanostructures. Key areas include functional nanostructures, energy storage devices, and advanced materials for batteries and solar technologies. Stefik holds a B.E. from California Polytechnic State University, an M.S. and Ph.D. from Cornell University.

His academic career includes roles as Associate Professor (2019–2023) and Assistant Professor (2013–2019) at USC, alongside postdoctoral and visiting research positions at institutions like EPFL and Fraunhofer IFAM. He directs the South Carolina SAXS Collaborative, offering advanced scattering analysis tools.

Stefik’s research emphasizes reproducible nanomaterials via methods like Persistent Micelle Templates, enabling controlled pore and material dimensions. His work has led to breakthroughs in pseudocapacitive materials, isotropic architectures, and high-performance energy storage systems. Awards include the NSF CAREER Award (2018), Mungo Teaching Award (2023), and multiple Emerging Investigator recognitions.

He teaches courses in general chemistry and nanoscale materials, mentoring students in experimental and theoretical aspects of materials science. Grants total over $4.1M, supporting projects on energy storage, nanomaterials, and collaborative workshops. His lab actively investigates lithium diffusion mechanisms and novel battery architectures, with a focus on scalable, sustainable solutions.