Theresa Schoetz

Theresa Schoetz is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Illinois. Her research focuses on electrochemical energy storage systems, with a particular emphasis on aluminum batteries, ionic liquid electrolytes, and charge storage mechanisms. She has contributed to advancements in solid polymer electrolytes, low-temperature battery technologies, and the elucidation of electrochemical interface dynamics. Her work integrates experimental and analytical techniques, including NMR spectroscopy and operando electrochemistry, to understand material behavior in energy storage devices.

Key research interests include: 1) Design of novel electrolytes for high-capacity aluminum batteries, 2) Development of flexible nanocellulose-based electrodes, 3) Mechanistic studies of charge storage in batteries and supercapacitors, and 4) Optimization of battery performance at extreme temperatures. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges material science, electrochemistry, and device engineering to address challenges in sustainable energy systems.

Dr. Schoetz has been recognized with the POLiS Award of Excellence for Female Researchers (2024) for her contributions to electrochemical energy storage research. Her work has been widely cited, with notable publications in Advanced Energy Materials and ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, and her research has attracted attention from both academic and industrial sectors.

Her lab focuses on translating fundamental electrochemical discoveries into practical energy storage solutions, emphasizing collaboration across disciplines. Current projects include next-generation aluminum batteries, low-temperature energy storage systems, and advanced characterization techniques for battery materials.