Member Profiles
Graduate Students
Jeffin James Abraham
Hometown: Doha, Qatar
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry
Joined: September 2022
I completed my BSc in Chemistry from Qatar University in 2018. During my undergraduate degree, I interned as a lab analyst at Anti-Doping Lab Qatar, and I also worked as an undergraduate research assistant at the Center for Advanced Materials (CAM) at Qatar University. I further worked as a full-time research assistant at CAM from 2018 to 2022, focusing on developing electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries. I joined the Dah-Metzger-Yang lab in fall 2022, and currently, I am working on different electrolytes and additives for Li-ion batteries. I am an avid football and Formula 1 fan, and in my spare time, I enjoy watching matches and races.
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Assylzat Aishova
Hometown: Shardara, Kazakhstan
Program: PhD in Chemical Engineering
Joined: January 2023
I received my B.Sc. in Chemistry from Eurasian National University (Astana, Kazakhstan) and M.Sc. in Energy Engineering from Hanyang University in Seoul, South Korea. During my graduate study at Hanyang University, I had a great opportunity to learn about high-energy density Ni-rich NCM and NCA cathodes, their technology, and scale-up production for EV applications under the supervision of Prof. Yang-Kook Sun. Currently, my PhD research is focused on developing of next-generation high-energy cathode materials for Li-ion batteries and understanding their failure mechanism. I love enjoying my morning coffee before starting my experiments every day and when I am not working in the lab, I enjoy reading books, cooking, and hiking sometimes.
Contact
assylzat.aishova@dal.ca
Saad Azam
Hometown: Mandeville, Louisiana
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry
Joined: September 2020
I received my B.Sc in Biology, and Chemistry from University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Valedictorian for the Class of 2015). During my undergraduate, I completed multiple co-ops (3) at NASA-JPL where I worked on fuel-cells and metal-hydride-air batteries (Dr. Ratnakumar Bugga). Upon graduation, I was hired by California Institute of Technology (Caltech) to work on 3-D architect Li-ion batteries (Dr. Neil Fromer). After a short stint at Caltech, I transitioned to Underwriters Laboratories Inc. as a Research Associate where I spent 3 years studying the safety of commercial lithium-ion batteries under various abuse conditions (Dr. Judy Jeevarajan). My current research in Dahn Lab is focused on developing novel electrolytes for high-voltage systems and to study electrolyte degradation pathways
Saad's research
High voltage electrolyte
Contact
saad.azam@dal.ca
Kevin Chen
Hometown: Tianjin, China
Program: PhD in Chemistry
Joined: September 2024
I finished my undergraduate degree for Chemical Engineering and Technology in Dalian University of Technology, China. My previous work focused on Ni-rich layered cathode for Li-ion cells. In Dahn Lab, I do research in the modification and safety of LIBs鈥� cathodes. In spare time, I would like to play badminton
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Jay Deshmukh
Hometown: Maharashtra, India
Program: M.A.Sc., Ph.D. Chemical Engineering
Joined: September 2021
During the completion of my undergraduate Chemical Engineering program (2021), I was involved in various research projects, including the synthesis of Co-Fe nanoparticles and the growth of silicon nanowires via CVD technique. In 2023鈥�24, I also worked at Tesla in Silicon Valley (Palo Alto, California), part of the Cell Engineering team, with a focus on the development of advanced high-energy alloy-based battery systems.
My current research primarily focuses on the development of electrode materials using earth-abundant elements (like Prussian Blue Analogs) and electrolyte platforms for next-gen battery technologies targeting EVs and stationary storage applications. A weekend project also includes the development of a so-called energy-efficient 鈥淒esalination Batteries鈥� technology that employs intercalation mechanism-based materials for the production of freshwater. My goal is to help accelerate the transition towards a sustainable and inspiring future.
When not working or brainstorming start-up ideas, I very passionately enjoy football (soccer), cycling, and running. Guitar, reading, learning new languages, meditation, and hiking also keep me occupied at times.
Contact
jay.deshmukh@dal.ca
Misha Donais
Hometown: Guelph, ON
Program: M.Sc. Physics
Joined: September 2024
I graduated from McGill University with a bachelors in Materials Engineering. During my undergraduate studies, I did a coop at NanoXplore working on graphene/polymer composites, and I also worked in a lab at McGill synthesizing manganese-based rock salt cathodes. My work in the Dahn lab focuses on electrolyte pumping in cylindrical cells, examining both electrolyte motion and salt gradients within cells. Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing volleyball, rock climbing, and reading.
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Animesh Dutta
Hometown: Haldia, India
Program: PhD in Materials Engineering
Joined: September 2020
I completed my bachelor鈥檚 from IIEST Shibpur, India (2015) and master鈥檚 from IIT Kanpur, India (2018) in Materials Engineering. In between, I worked for one year in Tata Consulting Engineers Limited as a Consulting Engineer for an integrated steel plant. Before starting my PhD I worked as a research assistant at IIT Bombay, India under the supervision of Prof. Amartya Mukhopadhyay in the area of alkali metal ion batteries, especially cathode material for Na-ion batteries. I am excited to start my research in the area of Li-ion battery in such a great group and hopefully contribute something fruitful to make batteries better.
Contact:
an345084@dal.ca
Claire Floras
Hometown: Oakville, ON
Program: PhD. Materials Engineering
Joined: September 2023
I received my undergraduate degree in Engineering Physics at Queen's University where I developed an interest in engineering climate technology. Before coming to 七色视频, I completed two internships at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology where I was introduced to the field of battery research. During this time in Germany, I used various characterization techniques (including CT scans, high-precision microscopy, and SEM) to examine commercial cells post-cycling. Since joining the Dahn-Metzger-Yang Lab, my experiments have focused on degradation mechanisms and lifetime predictions in various Lithium-ion chemistries, utilizing a variety of characterization methods. I like to spend my spare time in the outdoors.
Contact:
claire.floras@dal.ca
Kate Leslie
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Program: PhD in Chemistry
Joined: September 2022
I recieved my BSc. in Chemistry from Mount Allison University in 2022 where I studied gold nanoparticle synthesis and self-assembly. I completed my MSc in the spring of 2024 under the supervision of Prof. Michael Metzger focusing on the degredation of LMFP materials. In my free time I enjoy running, reading, or baking!
Contact:
kate.leslie@dal.ca
Yuxi Luo
Hometown: Changsha, China
Program: PhD in Physics
Joined: September 2025
I completed my bachelor鈥檚 degree at Shanghai Jiao Tong University and my master鈥檚 degree at Peking University Shenzhen Graduate School, focusing on the modification of layered oxide cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries to enhance their stability and performance through surface and structural optimization. In my spare time, I enjoy listening to music.
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Michael MacDonald
Hometown: Toronto, ON
Program: PhD in Chemistry
Joined: September 2024
I completed my MASc. in Materials Engineering at McMaster University in the summer of 2024 where I studied supercapacitors. I am currently working on in-situ gas analysis for Li-ion batteries. In my free time I like to go to the gym, hang out with my friends, and play with my cats Halloumi and Pepe.
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Martins Obialor
Hometown: Owerri, Nigeria
Program: MASc Chemical Engineering
Joined: May 2023
I received my B.Eng in Chemical Engineering from the University of Uyo in 2019, during which I completed research projects on zeolite synthesis for energy applications. In 2022, I completed a research term at the Energy Materials Lab in North Jeolla, South Korea, where I studied electrolytes for supercapacitors. This experience ignited my passion for working with rechargeable secondary batteries.
At the Dahn Lab, my current research focuses on enabling lead (Pb)as a negative electrode material for sodium-ion batteries and understanding the thermal stability of various active materials using Accelerated Rate Calorimetry (ARC).
When I am not in the lab, I can be found playing badminton, watching football (soccer) and catching up with family and friends.
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K眉bra 艦enel
Hometown: Duisburg, Germany
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry
Joined: May 2025
I completed my BSc in Chemistry at the University of M眉nster, where I conducted my bachelor鈥檚 thesis at the MEET Battery Research Center on the interphase formation on magnesium metal electrodes via cementation reactions. I then pursued an MSc in Chemistry, during which I undertook a research internship at CSIRO in Melbourne, Australia, focusing on water-based binders for LFP electrodes. Alongside my studies, I worked as a student research assistant at MEET and completed my master鈥檚 thesis on polymer-based solid electrolytes for lithium鈥搊xygen batteries.
In my free time, I enjoy baking, spending time in nature, and hiking.
Contact:
Cheyanne Soderquist
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Program: MSc in Chemistry
Joined: September 2025
I completed my BSc in Chemistry at the University of the Fraser Valley in 2025. While I was there, I completed 2 co-op terms at Nano One, a company that specializes in different synthesis methods of cathode materials. I was part of the NMC lab scale team where I worked on characterization of our standard material using TGA/DSC, BET, PXRD and PSD. As well as completed a project of how our material changes during the firing process from precursor to cathode active material using TGA/DSC, and PXRD. I enjoyed my experience working there and wanted to continue doing research into batteries. In my free time, I enjoy exploring Halifax with friends and reading.
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Parham Taghizadegan
Hometown: Tehran, Iran
Program: MASc. in Material Engineering
Joined: September 2024
I completed my BSc in Materials Science and Engineering from Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, in 2023. During my undergraduate studies, I worked as a research assistant at the Center for Nanostructured and Advanced Materials (CNAM) at Sharif University from 2021 to 2024. There, I gained extensive experience with various characterization techniques used in battery research, focusing on K-ion, Li-ion, and Lead-acid batteries, with a particular emphasis on anode materials for Li-ion systems. Currently, I am pursuing my MASc in Materials Engineering at 七色视频 under the supervision of Dr. Jeff Dahn, focusing on Silicon anodes for Li-ion batteries. In my spare time, I enjoy walking, working out, and spending time with friends.
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Ben Tang
Hometown: Hunan, China
Program: Ph.D. in Chemistry
Joined: September 2021
I received my Bachelor鈥檚 degree in Chemical Engineering at Xiangtan University and got my master鈥檚 degree from Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). During my time in CAS, I was focusing on designing highly safe electrolytes for high energy density LIBs. Now that I have joined the Dahn lab, I鈥檇 like to do my research on something new even though it is challenging and tough. When I鈥檓 free would cook some delicious Chinese foods, go hiking to discover something new, or find a place to play Chinese bamboo flute.
Contact
ben.tang@dal.ca
Ziwei Ye
Hometown: Zhengzhou, China
Program: Ph.D. in Physics
Joined: January 2022
I graduated from the University of Toronto with a BSc and MSc in Materials Science and Engineering, then I worked in BYD, Shenzhen as a battery design engineer and research assistant at the Southern University of Science and Technology before joining the Dahn lab. My current research focus is on the electrolyte optimization of Na-ion batteries. When not working in the lab, I like to go biking, playing tennis and soccer.
Contact
Ziwei.ye@dal.ca
Yixiang Zhang
Hometown: Chengdu, China
Program: PhD in Chemistry
Joined: September 2023
I finished my undergraduate and master in Fudan University, Shanghai, majoring in polymer chemistry and physics. During my master, I mainly worked on aqueous zinc batteries, which is very interesting and led me to the field of battery. Currently, my research in Dahn lab is focusing on anode materials and electrolyte for sodium ion batteries. In my spare time, I enjoy playing basketball, running and playing video games.
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Yuqing Zhao
Hometown: Hanzhong, China
Program: PhD in Physics
Joined: September 2024
I obtained my B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from RWTH Aachen University in 2022 and my M.Sc. in Energy and Process Engineering from Technical University of Munich in 2024. During my studies, I did internships at BMW Battery Cell Competence Center in Munich for two years, where I worked on P2D model-based aging simulation and subsequently in situ porosity determination for automotive cylindrical cells.
I鈥檓 always fascinated by the aging mechanisms of all kinds of state-of-the-art batteries. My current research is focused on the investigation of the degradation of lithium-ion batteries with Si/C anodes and the development of physics-based models for predicting battery lifetime.
In my leisure time, I enjoy dancing and music, particularly blues and metal.
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Visiting Students
Thitiphum Sangsanit
Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Program: Visiting PhD student
Joined: July 2025
I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Chemical Engineering at Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC), focusing on battery research. My work primarily involves cylindrical cell configurations, supported by our pilot plant for cylindrical cell fabrication.
Our research aims to bridge competitive academic research and large-scale production, covering Ni-rich, lithium- and manganese-rich (LMR), and anode-free systems, along with non-flammable electrolytes for cylindrical lithium-ion batteries and water-in-salt electrolytes for cylindrical supercapacitors. I am also responsible for the 18650 UN38.3 safety testing facility at VISTEC, which plays a key role in ensuring the safety of large-scale cells.
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Postdoctoral Fellows
Akshay Manohar Vadakkayil
Hometown: Kerala, India
Joined: August 2025
I received my PhD in Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati, India. My doctoral research focused on designing and understanding advanced anode materials with diverse reaction mechanisms for hybrid metal-ion capacitors. Currently, in the Dahn Lab, I am exploring high-performance cathode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. Beyond research, I enjoy watching movies, playing badminton, and travelling with friends.
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Undergraduate Students
Julianne Jager
Hometown: Ottawa, NS
Program: Mechanical Engineering (B.Eng)+ Environmental Science
Joined: May 2024
I am interested in efficient engineering design, circular economy, renewable energy, and transition to net-zero carbon emissions. Most of my time is spent either at the lab, working with my autonomous sailboat design team, completing personal design projects, or reading an assortment of books and papers.
Contact
j.jager@dal.ca
Sam Chisholm
Hometown: Halifax, NS
Program: B.Eng
Joined: July 2023
I just finished the first year of my undergraduate degree of Engineering at StFX. In the lab, I'm currently experimenting with charging cells to higher voltages as well as experimenting with different additives. In my free time, I like to workout, play the piano, and watch baseball.
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Rebecca Fenner
Hometown: Hubbards, NS
Program: BSc Hons. in Physics and Math
Joined: May 2024
I'm going in my fourth year at 七色视频, pursuing a combined honours degree in Physics and Math. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing team sports like softball and sailing, and I'm a member of the 七色视频 keelboat team. I've also built my own gaming PC and love taking it apart to upgrade it. I'm excited to continue learning and refining my skills while working in the Dahn-Metzger-Yang lab!
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Amir Kamalian
Hometown: Halifax, NS
Program: BSc in Physics and Math
Joined: May 2024
I am currently heading into my third year of undergraduate studies, double majoring in Physics & Mathematics. During my time in the Dahn/Metzger/Yang lab I am working on All-Dry Synthesis methods for positive electrodes. Outside of school and work I am an avid gym goer, love to play the guitar, and dabble in creating pixel art once in a blue moon.
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Holden MacLennan
Hometown: Halifax, NS
Program: BSc in Chemistry/Mathematics
Joined: May 2023
I am currently in the third year of my BSc at 七色视频. During my time at the Dahn/Metzger/Yang lab I have studied the degradation pathways of high-voltage electrolyte systems, with a focus on applications of NMR to Li-ion research. Outside of the lab I like to play rugby, electric guitar and go backcountry camping.
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Sasha Martin Maher
Hometown: Halifax, NS
Program: BSc in Physics
Joined: May 2023
I am currently in the third year of my undergraduate degree in Physics at Dal. In the Dahn-Metzger-Yang lab, I work on electrolyte composition and post cycle analysis in pouch and cylindrical cells. Outside of work and school, I like to spend my time outdoors camping and hiking, playing rugby and practicing the drums.
Contact
s.martinmaher@dal.ca
Sophie McGuinness
Hometown: Saint John, NB
Program: BSc in Biology
Joined: May 2025
I'm a big fan of science and technology, especially when it comes to sustainability and efficiency.
When I'm not working, you can find me in Point Pleasant Park, reading, on the Northwest Arm, out camping, or watching movies
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Ian Monchesky
Hometown: Halifax, NS
Program: BSc Double Major in Physics and Chemistry
Joined: July 2023
I'm currently pursuing a BSc Double Major in Physics and Chemistry here at 七色视频. During my time in the lab, I've worked on Li-excess NMC materials, as well as alloy materials for Na-ion anodes. I also used to do competitive swimming, so in my spare time I like to stay active by going to the pool, gym, or going hiking.
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Saar Omessi
Hometown: Haifa, Isreal
Program: B.Eng in Computer Engineering
Joined: May 2023
I am currently a third-year Computer Engineering student at 七色视频. In my first year at the lab, I focused on investigating the challenges associated with LMO spinel materials. In May 2024, I undertook a project to develop a high-precision battery cycling system using existing lab hardware, implementing the entire system in Python. In my free time I love to go to the beach, workout and arm-wrestle.
Contact
saar.omessi@dal.ca
Parth Popli
Hometown: New Delhi, India
Program: B.Eng in Computer Engineering
Joined: May 2025
I am a 4-th year Computer Engineering student at 七色视频, with some background in chemistry, having spent two summers at labs centered around material sciences. My work at the Dahn lab involves automating precision electrical measurements for R&D and validation tasks and scripting multi-channel voltage and current sourcing/measurement protocols, designing software solutions for the UHPC. Aside from work, I don't like staying indoors and prefer spending time outdoors and travelling to new places or playing any kind of sport.
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Michael Qu
Hometown: Weihai, China
Program: BSc. in Physics
Joined: May 2025
I am doing my undergraduate degree in Physics at Dal, and it will be my fourth year this fall. I hope to learn more about batteries and skills that can be applied to my future career in research. Outside of work and school, I like cycling, gaming, watching soccer games and singing.
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Daphne Thompson
Hometown: Medicine Hat, AB
Program: B.Sc in Chemistry
Joined: May 2023
During my first year at the lab, I had the opportunity to investigate failure mechanisms in cobalt-free batteries such as transition-metal dissolution. In my second year at the lab, I am working on all-dry cathode synthesis and am just beginning work with ARC. If I have free time, I enjoy playing my violin and various physical activities, particularly hiking. I am heavily involved with the dance community in Halifax, such as teaching lessons for varying dance styles and helping with events.
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Research Assistants
Libin Zhang
Hometown: Changzhou, China
Joined: November 2021
I received my PhD in Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Texas at Austin, where I focused on solid state synthesis and the measurements of electrical/thermal transport properties for thermoelectric applications. During this time, I enjoyed the process of problem-solving and understanding structure-property relationships. After joining the Dahn lab, my research is focused on developing electrode materials for sodium ion batteries. Outside of the lab, I enjoy exploring nature with my kids and working out with lovely lab-mates from time to time!
Dedicated Machinist