Powering a more sustainable future starts at the molecular level where innovative research into batteries and alternative energy sources is paving the way for cleaner technologies and a healthier environment.

Sahana Bhattacharyya is a postdoctoral researcher in UT’s Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering. She also serves as Vice Chair of the university’s Postdoctoral Association.

Bhattacharyya’s research is dedicated to advancing the field of electrochemistry with a focus on alternative energy resources. As finite natural resources such as oil become increasingly scarce, her work on next-generation batteries is vital for both public health and environmental sustainability. She pursued her postdoctoral fellowship at UT specifically to deepen her expertise in electrochemistry and expand the potential impact of her work.

For those considering postdoctoral opportunities, Bhattacharyya emphasizes the importance of patience and maintaining balance.

Managing finances is a big challenge. So is work-life balance. We have a tendency to spend so much time—even overtime—in the lab because we love our research so much. Make sure you also make time for your hobbies, your family life, your love life, or whatever else is important to you outside of your research.

She added how much it means to her to be a postdoctoral researcher at UT.

First of all, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is a great place for chemical engineers. I recently took on the role of Vice Chair of Postdoc Association, so that is also giving me the opportunity to be a leader. The UT postdoc community is a strong one, and we hope that it continues to grow stronger.

Reflecting on her time as a postdoctoral researcher, Bhattacharyya shared more about what she has learned to this point.

Being a postdoc is a great bridge between being a student and being a faculty advisor. You’re still learning from your advisor, but you’re also beginning to mentor others and take on that role yourself. For me, this has been a really valuable opportunity to learn from my advisor, and I’ve learned a lot about electrochemistry.

Bhattacharyya’s work is one example of the research and expertise postdoctoral scholars contribute across UT, advancing knowledge, addressing complex challenges and helping shape what comes next in their fields.

Learn more about National Postdoc Appreciation Week 2026 here as UT celebrates 150 years of postdoctoral research in the United States. Learn more about opportunities to connect, learn, have some fun, and recognize the contributions of postdoctoral scholars across the university.