Xiaohong Li

Professor Xiaohong Li is the Chair of Energy Storage and Deputy Head of the Department of Renewable Energy, Electrical and Electronic Engineering in the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy at the University of Exeter. She is a leading researcher in energy conversion and storage technologies, with a strong focus on redox flow batteries and green hydrogen production via anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysers. She leads major international and national research initiatives and actively supervises PhD students across a range of energy-related topics.

Education:

• Detailed educational background not explicitly mentioned in the text.

Her research centers on next-generation energy storage and conversion systems, particularly membrane-free redox flow batteries and AEM electrolysers that use non-precious metal catalysts to reduce costs and enhance scalability. Her work bridges materials engineering, electrochemistry, and sustainable technology development. She applies nanoscale materials to improve battery performance and catalyst efficiency, with strong emphasis on practical implementation and system-level integration.

The recent publications reflect a consistent trend toward sustainable, scalable, and economically viable energy technologies. Key themes include hydrogen production, flow battery innovation, catalyst development, techno-economic analysis, and waste valorization. These works span disciplines such as chemical engineering, materials science, electrochemistry, and environmental systems, demonstrating interdisciplinary depth and real-world applicability.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow of The Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC)

Xiaohong Li has secured substantial funding from EPSRC, Horizon 2020, Interreg, ERDF, and Royal Academy of Engineering for projects totaling millions of pounds. She serves as Principal Investigator or Co-Director on major grants such as MELODY, E2C, GW-SHIFT, and others, often collaborating with industry and civic partners. She mentors PhD students across diverse energy topics, including battery materials, hydrogen production, and recycling, offering both self-funded and scholarship-based opportunities. Her leadership roles in large consortia underscore her influence in shaping regional and international energy research agendas.

She is involved in several collaborative research networks and centers, including the GW4 Alliance, QUEX Institute (with University of Queensland), and regional initiatives like the Cornwall Marine Hydrogen Centre. These teams foster cross-institutional innovation in hydrogen technologies, marine energy, and sustainable materials, positioning her at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy transition.