Maher El-Kady

• UCLA Researcher of Chemistry & Biochemistry
• UCLA

Maher El-Kady is an innovator in material science and chemistry, renowned for his contributions to graphene research and advanced material applications in energy, electronics, and sustainability. As the co-founder and Chief Science and Technology Officer at Nanotech Energy, Inc., and Professional Researcher at UCLA, he’s known for pioneering next-generation batteries and supercapacitors through his expertise in materials design and implementation. With nearly 200 patents and over 75 publications, his work has garnered significant acclaim, including numerous national and international awards. He has been recognized in Iconic Express Magazine’s 2023 top 10 Influential Leaders, the American Chemical Society’s C&EN News Talented 12 award and Energy Storage Materials Young Scientist Award. His journey from foundational research at UCLA to leading a decade of research and development at Nanotech Energy has been instrumental in turning safer and more powerful lithium-ion batteries from a mere concept to commercial success. Now, as Nanotech Energy launches its 150MWh production facility in California, this journey is not just about technological advancement but also about bridging the gap between academic research and practical, scalable solutions. He discussed his research in a movie produced for the Sundance Film Festival on ideas that could change the world. He also appeared in the popular Nova science show and on BBC Four screen in a series of episodes that tell the stories behind some of the most significant inventions that helped shape the world we live in today. Throughout his career, El-Kady developed a long-standing passion for creating “smart” materials that will transform our lives.