The University of Utah’s Technology Licensing Office (TLO) has named Tao Gao, assistant professor of chemical engineering, as this year’s “Investigator on the Rise.” Gao was honored at the TLO’s annual Innovation Awards, held on October 13.
Gao is being recognized for developing a new, more sustainable way to extract lithium, a key material used in batteries. His process makes it possible to recover lithium from salty water sources like Utah’s Great Salt Lake while using less water and fewer chemicals than traditional methods. This approach could make lithium production cleaner and more efficient, especially in regions where water is limited and environmental impacts are a concern.
Lithium is an essential resource for clean energy technologies, including electric vehicles, smartphones and large-scale batteries used to store renewable power. However, current extraction methods are often expensive, slow and water-intensive. Gao’s work offers a more sustainable and practical path forward, one that aligns with the U’s broader focus on innovation and environmental stewardship
In addition to his lithium research, Gao recently received a National Science Foundation CAREER Award for a separate project focused on iron-based energy systems. Both projects center on making energy systems more sustainable and efficient, reflecting Gao’s long-term interest in advancing cleaner technologies through chemical engineering.
The Technology Licensing Office helps University of Utah researchers turn their discoveries into real-world technologies through patents, startups and industry partnerships. The Investigator on the Rise Award recognizes early-career faculty whose work has strong potential for real impact in their fields and communities. The award celebrates innovative research that moves beyond the lab to create progress through collaboration and commercialization.
Gao works closely with local industry partners and community groups to move his research forward. His partnerships help connect university innovation to local needs and opportunities, contributing to Utah’s growing role in clean energy and sustainable technology development.