Lithium-ion batteries are at the heart of today’s energy transition, powering everything from electric vehicles to large-scale renewable energy storage. But as the demand for cleaner, safer, and more sustainable energy solutions grows, what comes next?
Emerging technologies like sodium-ion and solid-state batteries promise exciting advantages, but also face real challenges. How close are they to everyday use? And what’s holding them back?
Led by UNSW Professor Neeraj Sharma, Director of the Australian Battery Society and expert in solid-state and next-gen batteries, this event dives into the latest developments in battery innovation, from new materials and manufacturing to recycling, grid integration, and the future of energy storage.
Who is it for?
This session is designed for anyone curious about the future of energy, whether you’re in engineering, policy, investment or consulting, or just passionate about clean technology.
Join us for an insightful discussion and the opportunity to connect with fellow UNSW alumni working at the forefront of change.
Your ticket
Includes light refreshments and access to an inspiring alumni community that’s making an impact near and far.
Professor Neeraj Sharma is an expert in solid state and materials chemistry at UNSW. His research focuses on state-of-the-art lithium-ion and next-generation batteries, including sodium-ion and potassium-ion batteries, and improving lithium-ion batteries. His work covers a large part of the lithium-ion battery value chain encompassing ore processing and purification, electrode material synthesis and processing, battery manufacturing, repurposing and recycling. His team works on understanding the chemistry in these processes and materials in order to improve them and develop safer, cheaper, long lasting and more environmentally friendly batteries.
Neeraj completed his Ph.D. at the University of Sydney and held a post-doctoral position at ANSTO before moving to UNSW and establishing his research group. He has received numerous awards, including the NSW Premier's Prize for Science and Engineering and the Australian Synchrotron Research Award.
Liz Anderson is the Managing Director of Sundowners Overland, an iconic travel company specialising in overland journeys along the Silk Road, Trans Mongolian Railway, and through the Caucasus. With over 20 years of international leadership experience, she brings deep expertise in navigating complex operational environments and delivering high-quality customer experiences across tourism and logistics.
Beyond Sundowners Overland Liz is the CEO and Board Member of the Student Educational Travel Organisation (SETO), championing the value of real-world, experiential learning and acting as a key connector between the travel and education sectors to expand access to student group travel.
A Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holder of an Executive MBA from AGSM @ UNSW, Liz is known for driving transformation across traditional industries; insights she brings to the evolving conversations around technology, sustainability, and the future of global mobility. Liz is President of the UNSW Melbourne Alumni Committee.
