USC Chemistry community is saddened by the passing of Sri Narayan, Professor of Chemistry and scientific director of the Loker Hydrocarbon Research Institute. Professor Narayan, whose research transformed fuel cell, battery and sustainability technologies, died on May 24, 2023. He was 63.
Professor Narayan joined USC Chemistry in 2010, after two decades of distinguished work on electrochemistry and fuel cell developments at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena, California. At USC, he focused his efforts on environmental sustainability. “The goal of my research and inventions is to address the global challenge of achieving net-zero carbon emissions through the pervasive use of renewable energy in all spheres of human activity,” he used to tell his students and colleagues. “I want my work on batteries to reach the neglected segments of the world population who have no access to electricity.” Among his many professional achievements, Narayan was elected a fellow of The Electrochemical Society in 2012. He was also inducted into the prestigious National Academy of Inventors in 2021.
Professor Narayan’s many contributions to chemistry are a testament to his legacy. He will be sorely missed by friends, colleagues, and students in the Department of Chemistry and the USC community at large.
Published Obituaries and Tributes
“Chemist’s research advanced energy storage solutions and powered Mars rovers,” USC Dornsife News