Dr. Julia Song: An Electrochemist’s Journey to Developing the Industry-Leading Long-Duration Energy Storage Technology
Dr. Julia Song is the Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of ESS Inc. (NYSE: GWH). In this position, Julia has spearheaded the transition of the iron flow battery technology from an idea in the lab to a commercially viable energy storage product that is being deployed around the world. Prior to founding ESS Inc., Julia was the Vice President of Research and Development at ClearEdge Power Inc., where she led cross-functional scientists and engineers on all corporate R&D projects and the commercialization of Combined Heat and Power High-Temperature Fuel Cell systems.
Julia’s journey in electrochemistry began with a childhood dream in China. “I grew up in China, and I had always been fascinated and intrigued by Chemistry,” she recalls. Her passion led her to Peking University, one of the best universities in China (and Asia), where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry. During her time at Peking University, Julia volunteered and spent countless hours in various labs, where she was first exposed to flow battery technology.
After completing her Bachelor’s degree, Julia moved to the U.S. to pursue a Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of North Carolina — Chapel Hill, focusing on electrochemistry and catalytic properties of nanoparticles. With only $400 in her pockets, she joined UNC as a research assistant. Under the mentorship of Dr. Royce Murray, one of the best-known electrochemists, she delved into the world of electrochemistry, further honing her skills and knowledge in these areas.
Upon completing her Ph.D., Julia faced a crucial decision between academia and industry. “After my Ph.D. there were two paths: either pursue academic research or transit into industry research,” she explains. “For me, the decision was easy because I have always dreamed about turning what I learn into tangible products that the world can benefit from. So I chose industry.” This decision led her to Milliken & Co., where she worked on applying electrochemistry knowledge to functionalize materials, gaining valuable industry experience.
Julia’s quest for impactful work eventually led her to join ClearEdge Power, a startup company focused on developing high-temperature fuel cell systems. “When I joined ClearEdge Power, there were a total of 10 people. I was employee #11,” she says:”Working there fueled me with the desire and excitement to build a technology and a company from the ground up,” she adds. At ClearEdge Power, Julia played a key role in developing a 5kW Combined Heat and Power Fuel Cell systems that were deployed around the world. At ClearEdge Power, Julia also met her future husband, Craig Evans. The limitations of fuel cells, particularly their reliance on precious metal catalysts, sparked a new direction for Julia in 2011.
In 2011, Julia co-founded ESS Inc. with her husband Craig, with a mission to revolutionize energy storage. “Craig and I wanted to build a new energy storage technology that uses inexpensive, earth abundant and sustainable materials. Wee started ESS to focus on developing and commercializing Iron Flow Redox batteries.” she explains. At ESS Inc., Dr. Song built a strong technical team from the ground up and led the development and commercialization of the iron flow battery technology, using earth abundant Fe, salt and water. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce costs and improve efficiency, making energy storage more accessible and sustainable.
Throughout her career, Dr. Song is aware that women are a minority in STEM. “When you work in STEM and especially in cleantech startups, women are certainly a minority,” she acknowledges. However, she has never let this reality discourage her. “Honestly I never let this bother me,” she asserts. “I never walk into a situation thinking I’m a woman. I never consider myself any different from my male colleagues.”
Julia reflects on the challenges of starting a startup, noting that “it might be perceived safer to have a job than to lead a startup. When Craig and Istarted ESS, neither of us had a job. We were applying for multiple state and federal grants but no one knew who we were and we were rejected so many times. It was scary and stressful at times.” However, a pivotal moment occurred when Craig offered a perspective that changed Julia’s mindset: “Craig asked me:” what’s the worst that could happen? If this company does not work out, we will both go find jobs and we will be fine. So stop worrying. Commit to what you always wanted to try and just do it.” This mindset of embracing risks and taking actions has been instrumental in Dr. Song’s entrepreneurial journey, leading to groundbreaking innovations in energy storage.
