An interview with Professor Po-Ya Abel Chuang

January 14, 2025

Po-Ya Abel Chuang is Associate Professor at the University of California Merced. The ICM is honored to welcome him to the Institute for Applied Materials – Electrochemical Technologies (IAM-ET) of KIT within the ICM Mid-Term Fellowships for Experts.

As a Mid-Term Fellow at the InnovationCampus Future Mobility (ICM), what are the primary objectives of your research?

My primary research focuses on advancing hydrogen technology, specifically in the areas of fuel cells for hydrogen conversion to electricity and electrolyzers for water-to-hydrogen conversion. My work is deeply rooted in electrochemical research, which aligns well with the ICM’s emphasis on mobility solutions. I am driven by a passion for energy sustainability, where hydrogen technology plays a pivotal role in the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy systems. My research objective is to develop a fundamental understanding of the kinetic and transport mechanisms in fuel cells and electrolysis cells. Thus, I aim to enhance performance, improve durability, and reduce costs, thereby contributing to the broader adoption of hydrogen-based energy solutions.

 

How does this fellowship complement your ongoing work at UC Merced?

The fellowship at the Institute for Applied Materials - Electrochemical Technologies (IAM-ET) at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with a world-class research center. IAM-ET has over two decades of expertise in high-temperature applications of fuel cells and electrolyzers, and more recently, they have ventured into low-temperature applications. Through this fellowship, I have the privilege of working closely with Dr. André Weber and his team, fostering collaboration on both high- and low-temperature technologies. A significant focus of our collaborative research is to study the fundamental transport mechanisms in electrochemical cells using complementary approaches. KIT is leveraging its expertise in diagnostic tools, particularly the Distributed Relaxation Time (DRT) technique, to analyze and understand transport phenomena within the cells. Simultaneously, at UC Merced, we have developed advanced simulation models to provide a theoretical framework and predictive insights into these mechanisms. By combining experimental diagnostics from KIT with simulation-driven insights from UC Merced, our collaboration aims to uncover new strategies for optimizing cell performance and durability.

This collaboration has already yielded some results including joint presentations at international conferences and a collaborative proposal for future funding. Additionally, we are actively working on new research proposals and preparing manuscripts for publication. These efforts underscore the mutually beneficial nature of this partnership, advancing both research and education. Beyond academic collaboration, this fellowship provides a platform to engage with industrial partners and other research institutes, broadening the scope and impact of our work. By bridging fundamental research with practical applications, we aim to address pressing challenges in the hydrogen economy.

Ultimately, I envision this fellowship as the foundation for a long-term, sustainable research collaboration to drive innovation in hydrogen technology and contribute to the global pursuit of energy sustainability.

 

What trends in hydrogen and electrochemical energy research are you most excited about?

I am particularly excited about the global initiatives to establish robust hydrogen infrastructure, encompassing hydrogen generation, storage, transportation, and utilization. This comprehensive approach is essential to fully realize the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. One of the most promising advancements is the potential commercialization of fuel cell technology, particularly in transportation sectors such as cars, buses, trucks, ships, and planes. Achieving this milestone depends on the ability to produce hydrogen from renewable energy sources at competitive costs. Green hydrogen will play a crucial role in achieving long-term energy sustainability.

 

What are the challenges and advantages compared to battery technology?

While battery technology offers high efficiency, it faces significant limitations. Batteries have a relatively low gravimetric energy density compared to hydrogen, which limits their potential for applications requiring long-range or heavy-duty energy storage. Additionally, the extraction and use of certain materials in batteries, such as cobalt and lithium, raise environmental and ethical concerns. Safety issues, including risks of thermal runaway and fire hazards, further underscore the need for alternative technologies. Fuel cells and hydrogen applications, in contrast, offer several key advantages. Hydrogen has a much higher energy density by weight, making it an excellent candidate for powering applications like aviation, shipping, and long-haul transportation where weight is a critical factor. Moreover, hydrogen fuel cells produce only water as a byproduct, eliminating concerns about toxic waste. Fuel cells also have fast refueling times and longer lifespans compared to batteries in certain applications, making them particularly attractive for commercial and industrial use cases.

 

Where do you see the field heading in the next decade?

Having worked on fuel cell-related research for over two decades, I am optimistic that the next decade will witness the full commercialization of hydrogen-powered vehicles, supported by a robust and sustainable hydrogen infrastructure. This transformation will not only revolutionize transportation but also significantly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions on a global scale. The continued convergence of research, industry, and policy efforts will be critical to advancing hydrogen technology and establishing it as a viable, scalable solution for the energy challenges of the future.

 

With experience at General Motors and now in academia, what insights can you share about the transition from industrial R&D to academic research?

Transitioning from industrial R&D to academic research has been a journey filled with valuable lessons and unique experiences. Having worked at General Motors (GM), as well as startups and academic institutions in Taiwan and the United States, I have gained insights into the distinct advantages and challenges of each environment.

At GM, I had the privilege of working at a world-leading research facility focused on fuel cell and electrochemical technologies. Collaborating with experts across diverse fields such as electrocatalysis, polymer science, mathematics, physics, and engineering provided me with a comprehensive understanding of fuel cell systems. This interdisciplinary experience shaped my laboratory’s approach to vertically integrated research and honed my teamwork and leadership skills, which guide my academic endeavors.

However, working in a large corporate environment like GM also had its limitations. The scope and direction of R&D efforts were often dictated by the company’s strategic priorities, requiring flexibility and adaptability that could hinder long-term, exploratory research. Nonetheless, the focus on product performance, durability, and cost in the industry provided a solid foundation for applied research.

Transitioning to academia was not without its challenges. Establishing an experimental research laboratory and generating reliable data took over four years of time and effort. Yet, academia offers unparalleled flexibility and autonomy, allowing me to define my research agenda, choose collaborators, and design courses. This freedom, however, comes with substantial responsibilities, including managing resources, mentoring students, and navigating the pressures of tenure evaluation.

One fundamental difference between industrial and academic research lies in their objectives. While industry prioritizes the development of market-ready products with a focus on performance and cost-effectiveness, academia emphasizes fundamental understanding and the training of future researchers. My research, which bridges these domains, tends to be more applied, enabling me to collaborate effectively with national labs, companies, and other universities.

 

Any advice for those considering this career shift?

For individuals considering their professional paths, my advice is to understand your passions and career goals. Whether it’s the structured environment of industrial R&D, the exploratory nature of academia, or the dynamic challenges of startups, each pathway offers unique opportunities for growth and impact. If you thrive in research-focused roles, national labs or corporate R&D can be fulfilling. Conversely, if teaching and mentoring resonate with you, academia provides a deeply rewarding experience.

One lesser-known advantage of academia, particularly after achieving tenure, is the opportunity for global collaborations which expand research capabilities but also amplify one’s impact on the global stage. For example, my collaboration with the InnovationCampus Future Mobility (ICM) and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) has been instrumental in broadening my research portfolio and fostering cross-disciplinary innovation.

In conclusion, the transition from industry to academia has enriched my professional journey, offering diverse perspectives and opportunities. I am grateful for the experiences and collaborations and look forward to continuing to bridge the gap between fundamental research and practical applications in the field of hydrogen and electrochemical energy technologies.

 

Bucket list: name three things you did/experienced or want to do during your stay in Germany (not work related)

Germany has always been a country that fascinates me, combining rich history, engineering excellence, and vibrant culture. Since my first visits to Germany in 2006 while working for General Motors, I’ve admired its technological advancements and cultural depth. During this fellowship, I’ve had the chance to experience some truly unique aspects of life here. If I were to highlight three memorable experiences during my stay, they would be:

  1. Learning German Again
    After many years since my college days, I had the chance to take German lessons again. Learning the language has been both challenging and rewarding, as it offers a deep insight into the culture and structure of German society. I appreciate how systematic and logical the German language is - each word has a clear pronunciation rule, and compound words reveal their meanings. For example, Hochzeit (wedding) combines hoch (high) and zeit (time), reflecting the idea of the "most important time" in someone’s life. Beyond the language itself, the experience of being a student again and attending lessons took me back to my youthful college days, making me feel invigorated and nostalgic.
  2. Exploring Castles and Their Histories
    Germany's castles are iconic, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed visiting several during my stay. While their architecture and grandeur are breathtaking, I find the historical stories behind them equally captivating. Many castles bear tales of war, power struggles, and loss, hidden beneath their beauty. These stories remind me of how fortunate we are to live in more peaceful and stable times. Exploring these sites has deepened my appreciation for Germany's rich history and the resilience of its people.
  3. Experiencing European Proximity and Culture
    One of the most exciting aspects of being in Karlsruhe is its proximity to other countries. Unlike the United States, where traveling to another country often involves long distances and similar cultural landscapes, Europe offers the chance to experience vastly different cultures, languages, and cuisines within a few hours’ drive. During this fellowship, I’ve visited neighboring countries like France, Switzerland, and Austria, immersing myself in their unique traditions, architecture, and food. This opportunity to explore the diversity of Europe has been an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Beyond these top three experiences, there are countless other things I’ve enjoyed about living in Germany. Driving on the autobahn without speed limits has been thrilling, especially as someone who once worked in the automotive industry. The variety of beers, as well as the delicious German, French, Mediterranean, and even Ethiopian cuisine, has been a delight to explore.

 

“For me, the ICM stands for […]”

The InnovationCampus Future Mobility (ICM) provides a platform to drive transformative breakthroughs in sustainable mobility and energy, uniting academia and industry to shape the future of transportation and decarbonization.

Overall, my time in Germany has been an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I am deeply grateful to ICM and KIT for this incredible opportunity and would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Dr. André Weber, Group Leader at KIT IAM-ET, and Catherine Baumann, Project Manager at ICM, for their support and guidance throughout my stay.