Junhong Chen works as Argonne National Laboratory’s lead water strategist to improve the impact and visibility of Argonne’s water research, and as a senior scientist in Argonne’s Chemical Sciences and Engineering (CSE) division to develop nanomaterials for water sensing. He also enhances Argonne’s community involvement as the science leader for the Argonne in Chicago initiative.

Growing up in China, Junhong was interested in science and math. He especially liked asking questions after class, as well as answering questions that his classmates had. ​“I found that I was quite good at explaining problems, and in the process I gained this sense of satisfaction,” he said. ​“Starting from my college days, I knew I wanted to be a teacher or professor.” Today, Junhong has accomplished that goal by, in addition to working for Argonne, teaching at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering as a crown family professor.

At Argonne, Junhong has several responsibilities. As the lead water strategist, he contributes to Argonne’s major water research projects. He recently helped develop and publish the Water + AI strategy, which provides the framework for applying artificial intelligence to water-related problems. ​“Water is one of our most valuable resources, impacting people, infrastructure and industries around the globe,” he said. ​“Smart sensors can improve the safety of drinking water, save energy, and protect the environment by monitoring the water quality.”

Along with his water sensor research and his study of nanomaterials (which will support sustainable energy devices), Junhong is closely involved in the ongoing Argonne in Chicago initiative. This ambitious project will connect Argonne to local communities across Chicago and help the Lab better support the STEM growth of students. ​“Argonne in Chicago aims to advance key research and development opportunities in the Chicago area, significantly enhance Argonne’s impact on local communities, and attract diverse talent to the lab and other key STEM institutions,” he said.

In his work, Junhong most appreciates creating things that have real impacts on science and the world. ​“STEM fields are exciting and often related to our daily life,” he advises students. ​“Complex societal problems/challenges are typically interdisciplinary in nature and need to use an interdisciplinary approach to solutions. Therefore, you should be open to convergent research and education across multiple avenues, including social perspectives. Learn more about liberal arts, read more social science books, and build up your soft skills.”