Research Consortia
KAIST-MAssachusetts Institute of Technology
Research Project
  • KAIST-MIT Future Energy Research Center
Consortium Members
Type Domestic Institution International Institution
Lead Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Partner Seoul National University
Commissioned Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology
Research Summary
Purpose
  • Develop an automated AI-robotics-based system for green energy production, storage, and conversion.
  • Establish a global platform for the training of next-generation experts in sustainable energy innovation.
Research Content
  • Utilize AI and robotics to automate material discovery and electrolyte interface research.
  • Develop high-performance electrochemical materials and reactor systems for producing high-value carbon compounds through electrochemical conversion of low-concentration CO₂.
  • Develop highly durable electrocatalysts through complex oxide surface control technology and scalable electrocatalyst production methods.
Consortium Features
Domestic Institutions
  • Korea has a strong industrial base, with multiple global battery manufacturers enabling rapid market-responsive research and development.
  • Extensive experience in spectroscopy and foundational research provides a solid base for advanced electrochemical studies.
International Institution (MIT)
  • Possesses automated experimentation systems and efficient research protocols based on AI and robotics technologies.
  • Demonstrates a high level of expertise in optimizing reactivity in electrode environments.
Outcomes, Applications & Expected Impact
Utilization of Research Outcomes
  • Contribute to the development of energy storage systems, ranging from portable electronic devices to large-scale renewable power plants, offering high energy density and long-term stability.
  • Enhance the commercial viability of water electrolysis systems by providing catalysts that remain stable under high acidity, high voltage, and fluctuating load conditions.
Industrialization and Carbon Neutrality Contributions
  • Accelerate commercialization of key technologies in areas such as energy storage, hydrogen production, and environmentally friendly systems.
  • Contribute to achieving South Korea’s 2030 greenhouse gas reduction targets and national carbon neutrality goals by increasing energy storage efficiency through renewable energy sources.
Researchers (PI)
  • Il-Doo KIm Chair Professor
    Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
    Main research areas
    • High-stability lithium metal protection film
    • Roll-to-roll large area electrospinning technology
    • Synthesis of nanocatalyst based on rapid heat treatment
    • Oxide-based gas sensor
    • Sulfide-based solid electrolyte
  • Yun Jeong Hwang Associate Professor
    Seoul National University, SNU
    Main research areas
    • Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Reaction
    • Electrochemical Nitrogen(Nitrate) Reduction Reaction
    • Electrochemical Biomass Conversion
    • Water Electrolysis
    • In situ/operando Spectroscopic Analysis
  • Jong-Beom Baek Distinguished Professor
    Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST)
    Main research areas
    • Synthesis of porous covalent organic frameworks (COFs)
    • Mechanochemical mass production of high-quality graphene
    • Synthesis of electrocatalysts for hydrogen production via water splitting
    • Mechanochemical greenhouse gas treatment technology
    • Control technology for 2D π-conjugated materials
  • Harry. L. Tuller R. P. Simmons Professor
    Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
    Main research areas
    • Development of electronic ceramics materials
    • Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs)
    • Mixed ionic-Electronic conductors
    • Photoexcitation-assisted oxide ion conduction technology