Welcome to the web page for the Matthias Young Research Group at the University of Missouri-Columbia.

Our research group accelerates the discovery of next-generation electrochemical materials and devices by integrating thin-film synthesis, electrochemical characterization, and artificial intelligence. We use conformal coatings and interfacial engineering—enabled by ALD, MLD, and related techniques—to control charge transport and chemical stability at the nanoscale. By coupling these experiments with data-driven modeling, active learning, and autonomous optimization, we efficiently explore vast processing and composition spaces. This fusion of precision materials processing with machine intelligence allows us to rapidly identify and design coatings and heterostructures that overcome key electrochemical limitations. Ultimately, our goal is to transform electrochemical interface design from an empirical process into a predictive, model-guided discipline—advancing technologies for energy storage, water treatment, semiconductor technology, and related applications.