Christopher Johnson is a chemical engineer focused on researching the physical properties of soft materials to help secure clean energy and water.
He received his Bachelors in Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware, with a minor in English. At the University of Delaware, he was involved in the E-52 student theatre company, won the Elda Wollaeger Gregory Poetry award, and did several years of research under the advisement of Prof. Arthi Jayaraman. His research at Delaware was focused on molecular dynamics studies of amphiphilic block copolymers to tune micellar properties.
After obtaining his Bachelors, Chris received his Doctorate in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, advised by Prof. Chinedum Osuji. His thesis, entitled “Structure and Transport Properties of Nanoporous Polymers Derived From Lyotropic Mesophases,” involved the production of nanoporous polymer films for desalination and energy generation purposes.
Chris is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow advised by Prof. Peter Kofinas at the University of Maryland, where he is researching battery materials at extreme temperatures. These projects include novel electrolyte formulations for low-temperature charging, as well as high-temperature stable polymer electrolytes.