Doctoral student since Fall 2016
Department: Materials Science & Engineering
Contact: bparen@seas.upenn.edu
Hometown: Naperville, IL
Previous education:
BS in Materials Science & Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 2016
MS in Materials Science & Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, 2016
Ben’s research focuses on understanding the properties of ion containing polymers. This includes analysis of segmental dynamics, conductive properties, and morphology in precise ion-conducting polymers and polymerized ionic liquids. Ben has been a member of Act 3 of the REACT Program since January 2017, which aims to design and characterize self-assembled nanomaterials for energy generation and storage. He is also a 2018-2019 VIEST Graduate Fellow, which is awarded individuals involved in energy science research.
Outside of work, Ben enjoys going on walks, watching shows on Netflix, and exploring Philadelphia with friends.