Dr. Eric Wachsman (ION Storage Systems)
Overview
Dr. Eric Wachsman is a prominent figure in the field of energy research, known for his significant contributions to solid state batteries and fuel cells. He is the founder and Executive Chair of Ion Storage Systems, which specializes in advanced battery technologies. Additionally, Dr. Wachsman serves as the Director of the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute and is a Distinguished University Professor at the University of Maryland. His work has garnered him recognition as a leading expert in solid-state ion conductors and devices, with over 270 publications and 37 patents to his name.
Recent Developments
- In early 2025, Ion Storage Systems expanded its executive team in a bid to accelerate the commercialization of its groundbreaking solid-state battery technology, adding leaders with extensive experience in advanced energy sectors.
- By mid-2024, the production line at Ion Storage Systems in Beltsville, Maryland, aimed to manufacture 10MWh of battery cells annually, with projections to scale up to 500MWh by 2028. This expansion reflects a broader shift towards sustainable, U.S.-based battery production.
- In 2023, Ion Storage Systems secured $30 million in Series A funding to increase its manufacturing capabilities, fostering partnerships with aerospace and defense industries.
- The company, originally spun out from Dr. Wachsman’s lab at the University of Maryland, takes a unique approach by eliminating the use of cobalt and nickel, positioning its batteries as more environmentally friendly compared to conventional lithium-ion counterparts.
- Additionally, under Dr. Wachsman's leadership, the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute continues to play a critical role in fostering energy innovation, having awarded multiple Energy Innovation Seed Grants to support the development of promising new technologies within the state.
Personal Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dr. Eric D. Wachsman |
| Born | Not publicly available |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Energy Researcher, Professor, Executive Chair |
| Known For | Solid state batteries, Fuel cells, Founder of Ion Storage Systems |
| Net Worth | Not publicly available |
| Education | Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Stanford University; B.S. in Chemical Engineering, University of California, Berkeley |
Early Life and Education
Eric Wachsman grew up with a profound interest in science and technology, leading him to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. His academic path continued at Stanford University, where he received his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering. These formative years laid the groundwork for his future endeavors in energy innovation. During his academic career, Wachsman was significantly influenced by the growing environmental concerns and the quest for sustainable energy solutions, which would define his contributions to solid-state battery technology and fuel cells.
Career and Notable Achievements
Dr. Wachsman's career is marked by notable achievements in the development of solid ion-conducting materials and electrocatalysts:
- Director of Research Centers: He spearheaded the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute and previously founded the Florida Institute on Sustainable Energy.
- Academic Contributions: He has educated a new generation of electrochemists, graduating over 35 Ph.D. students and receiving numerous teaching awards.
- Leadership Roles: He served as President of The Electrochemical Society, reflecting his leadership in the field of electrochemistry.
- Recognitions: Dr. Wachsman received prestigious awards in his field, including the 2017 Carl Wagner Award from The Electrochemical Society and the Sir William Grove Award in 2014.
- Innovations in Energy: His research has led to the founding of three companies, including Ion Storage Systems, aiming to revolutionize energy storage technologies.
Current Work and Impact
Currently, Dr. Wachsman continues to advance the field of solid-state energy storage as Executive Chair of Ion Storage Systems. The company's initiatives focus on creating batteries that are safer, faster charging, and more environmentally friendly by using a non-flammable ceramic electrolyte, an innovation poised to transform the battery industry. His work at the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute promotes energy technology development and commercialization, impacting both academic research and industrial practices.
Conclusion
Dr. Eric Wachsman stands at the forefront of energy research and innovation, significantly impacting battery technology and sustainable energy solutions. Through his pioneering work at Ion Storage Systems and as Director of the Maryland Energy Innovation Institute, he has facilitated advancements in solid state batteries, fostering their development from laboratory research to commercial applications. As global demand for cleaner and more efficient energy solutions continues to grow, Dr. Wachsman's contributions position him as a crucial figure driving forward the future of energy technology.