Suraj Chandran

Suraj Chandran develops theoretical and computational methods to probe novel quantum regimes of chemical dynamics and to accelerate the development of efficient, sustainable energy conversion systems.

Chandran received his bachelor’s degree in chemistry and mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania in 2023. During his undergraduate career, he worked with Dr. Joseph Subotnik to investigate how the chiral-induced spin selectivity effect may be mediated by the interplay between molecular vibrations and spin-orbit coupling. Working in the context of a two-state electron transfer model, he demonstrated that nonequilibrium spin-polarization can emerge in a symmetry-dependent manner even at the lowest level of perturbation theory.

While at Penn, Chandran was also a member of Penn Electric Racing, where, as battery systems lead, he led the development of novel computational pack sizing strategies to maximize the performance of a formula-style electric race car. Following graduation, he took his diverse skill set to AND Battery Aero, an early-stage battery technology startup, where he worked to bring next-generation lithium cell technologies to commercial viability before arriving at Columbia University to begin his doctoral studies in chemical physics.

Outside of his research, Chandran enjoys playing the violin and hiking and is an avid rock climber. He grew up in Edison, New Jersey.