This autumn, a special ceremony at Nanjing Normal University drew attention from the global energy community. Stefano Passerini, a world-renowned scholar in battery research, officially joined the Jiangnan-based institution.
Once a pivotal figure in German science, Passerini moved his laboratory and research team across continents, choosing China as the next frontier for his scientific journey. But what prompted such a major career decision, and what impact will his presence have on the country’s energy storage technology?
A Global Authority in Battery Innovation
In the field of energy materials, few names carry as much weight as Passerini. His pioneering work on novel electrolytes and sodium-ion batteries has significantly shaped modern energy research.
Though highly technical, these advancements connect directly to everyday life. Sodium-ion batteries, for example, could one day make electric vehicle batteries and smartphones cheaper, safer, and more sustainable.
Passerini’s influence is underscored by his academic record. His papers have been cited over 73,000 times, placing him among the most impactful researchers in energy science. In 2019, he was elected to the German National Academy of Sciences, one of the highest honors for scientific achievement. He has also appeared multiple times on the list of Highly Cited Researchers, a testament to the global relevance of his work.
Why Sodium-Ion Batteries Matter
Unlike lithium, sodium is abundant and widely available, particularly in seawater. With global lithium reserves both limited and unevenly distributed, sodium-ion technology offers a promising alternative.
Earlier this year, during a lecture at Nanchang University, Passerini shared his team’s progress on sodium-seawater batteries, a potential breakthrough for large-scale renewable energy storage. His expertise also extends to polymer electrolytes and ionic liquids, materials essential for improving battery safety, charging speed, and lifespan.
A Major Appointment in China
Nanjing Normal University welcomed Passerini with full honors. During the appointment ceremony, university leaders highlighted the strategic significance of attracting such a top-tier scientist.
Passerini was officially named Director of the newly established International Electrochemical Energy Storage Research Institute. His collaborator, Professor Chen Zhen, also signed an agreement to join, signaling strong institutional support for an entire research team.
In his speech, Passerini emphasized that safe, efficient, and low-cost energy storage is central to achieving carbon neutrality worldwide. He stressed that electrochemical storage is not only advancing materials science but also driving new industries such as advanced manufacturing and smart energy systems.
Why China, and Why Now?
For Passerini, China represents both opportunity and scale. He has spoken highly of Nanjing Normal University’s research platform, talent resources, and commitment to innovation.
Even more importantly, China’s dual-carbon goals—carbon peaking and neutrality—create an unparalleled environment for energy technology development. As the world’s largest energy consumer and renewables market, China offers a fertile ground for transforming laboratory breakthroughs into real-world solutions.
The university has promised substantial support, from state-of-the-art laboratories and generous research funding to help in building a world-class research team. For any scientist, this level of institutional backing is highly compelling.
Building a Global Research Bridge
Passerini’s arrival could reshape China’s energy storage research landscape. His institute will tackle key challenges in renewable energy storage, potentially reshaping the global energy transition.
He also aims to act as a bridge between China and the international scientific community, fostering collaborations that attract more leading researchers to the country.
For Nanjing Normal University, this milestone not only strengthens its standing in energy materials research but also signals its ambition to become a hub for global scientific talent.
References
- Nanjing Normal University official news: “German Academy of Sciences Member Stefano Passerini Joins Our University Full-Time”
- Nanchang University News: “German Academy Scientist Stefano Passerini Lectures at Qianhu Forum”
- Journal of Power Sources – professional media coverage in the energy materials field
