UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Michael Janik has been named an associate director of the Institute of Energy and the Environment (IEE) at Penn State. Janik is a professor of chemical engineering whose work includes understanding and designing catalysts for alternative energy conversion systems. His role as associate director begins Oct. 1.
“Michael brings a strong foundation in energy research as well as multiple years of leadership service at the University,” said Bruce Logan, IEE director. “His extensive skill set and experience will allow him to provide strategic guidance as a part of the leadership team and integral support to IEE researchers.”
Janik has been at Penn State since 2006. In addition to his work as a faculty member, he served in leadership roles for the Department of Chemical Engineering, including acting department head; associate department head, leading the chemical engineering undergraduate program; and graduate program lead.
“My research program has always benefited from the tremendous collaborative opportunities in energy research at Penn State,” Janik said. “I am excited to help others connect and take advantage of the broad research expertise and infrastructure we have as a leading institution in energy and environmental research.”
Janik’s research addresses a wide range of energy technologies, including fuel cells and electrolysis, organic electronics, and intermetallic and single-atom catalysis. He has co-authored more than 200 peer-reviewed papers and co-edited the book “Computational Catalysis” published by the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2013. His externally funded research totals $10 million and primarily involves projects with the Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation.
In addition to Logan and Janik, IEE leadership includes Erica Smithwick, who is an associate director of the institute, distinguished professor of geography, and director of the Earth and Environmental Systems Institute.