Yecun Wu

Bio: Yecun Wu earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford University in 2023, where he worked with Prof. Yi Cui and collaborated closely with Prof. Harold Y. Hwang. During his doctoral studies, he developed electrostatic gating and intercalation methods to control the properties of two-dimensional materials using guest species, which opened new avenues for their use in quantum and energy applications. Presently, his research endeavors focus on addressing critical challenges in the energy sector through the application of quantum technology. He was a recipient of the Leland F. and Margaret Perry Johnson Fellowship. Beyond academia, Yecun finds enjoyment in sports, particularly basketball.

Postdoctoral research project: Single ion microscopy for energy.  For decades, scientists have aimed to explain macroscopic phenomena by studying the microscopic behaviors of individuals, recognizing the potential for significant advancements across various fields. In energy, particularly in battery technology, numerous microscopic techniques have emerged to investigate materials morphology, elemental distribution, etc. These techniques have played a pivotal role in advancing high-performance energy storage devices. However, existing methodologies are limited, either by harsh imaging conditions that interfere with electrochemical processes or by a lack of resolution at the single-ion level. As a Stanford Energy Postdoctoral Fellow, Yecun will use the quantum sensors to optically capture and visualize the behaviors of individual single ions in liquid, thereby enhancing our comprehension of the intricate physics and chemistry inherent in batteries and other energy systems.

Research focus:  Energy Conversion & Storage - Batteries

Advisors:  Steve Chu - Physics, Molecular & Cellular Physiology, Energy Science & Engineering | Yi Cui - Materials Science and Engineering, Energy Science & Engineering