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Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy

The mission of the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy is to advance global sustainability and energy solutions through transformational research, interdisciplinary education, and public engagement.

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Read the latest news.

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The Trienens Institute Recycle Pillar

January 27, 2024
One of the Trienens Institute Six Pillars of Decarbonization, the Recycle pillar aims to help solve the plastics pollution crisis and create a viable circular economic model at scale
electricity lines, sunset

The Trienens Institute Store Pillar

January 15, 2025
One of Six Pillars of Decarbonization, the Store pillar aims to facilitate the large-scale deployment of renewable energy sources in the energy grid
technology

The Call of a Circular Economy

December 12, 2024
from MS in Energy & Sustainability
Maria Keane (MSES '22) advocates for sustainable practices and pushes for policies that foster a greener future in her role at Energetics
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About the Trienens Institute

Collaboration across disciplines and organizations for a sustainable future.

We ask questions that lead to new insights and discoveries.

Neil Schweitzer and students in laboratory looking at equipment

Discover a diverse range of groundbreaking research initiatives centered in the Trienens Institute, stemming from cutting-edge team science across disciplines. Engage with leading scholars and explore innovative projects that address complex societal issues and push the boundaries of knowledge. 

Trienens Institute Pillars of Decarbonization
Learn how the pillars are designed to leverage Northwestern strengths to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future.

Meet Our Faculty
Meet our diverse faculty who approach complex local and global sustainability and energy challenges with interdisciplinary insights.

Research Spotlight
The Tobin Marks Group partners with GIANTFab Lab for various projects enhancing solar cell production.

Empowering minds for a sustainable future.

Students prepare to be future leaders through coursework and experiential opportunities in sustainability and energy at Northwestern University. The Trienens Institute collaborates across academic departments and with industry to administer an Undergraduate Certificate in Sustainability and Energy plus a Master’s of Science in Energy and Sustainability. Additional programs include study abroad and research initiatives. Students engage with renowned faculty from across the University and industry to learn how to make a meaningful impact on society's most pressing challenges.

Student Insights
Former MS in Energy and Sustainability students share tips on how to build a career in energy. 

Study Abroad Spotlight
Trek to Chile opens eyes of engineering students.

Collaboration is vital to the mission of the Trienens Institute.

Participant speaks at Trienens Institute event

Innovative teams bring their unique strengths together to produce transformational research and education initiatives. Alumni play a key role in carrying this mission into the world and giving back to support the next generation. Explore how we foster meaningful partnerships with organizations and individuals to address complex challenges and create lasting positive change in the world.

Fostering Innovation and Entrepreneurship
The Trienens-Q CleanTech Accelerator Program creates a clear path from idea design to commercialization. 

Alumni Profile
Meet sustainability consultant Asia Lustig (MSES '22) who helps clients reduce their environmental impact. 

Stay Up to Date

Upcoming Events

Feb
10
2025

Master of Science in Energy and Sustainability (MSES) Online Q&A with Alumni Classes of 2021-24

5:00 PM
You are cordially invited to attend an upcoming information session for Northwestern University's Paula M. Trienens Inst...
Feb
21
2025

CCSS Student Seminar Series

12:00 PM Ryan Hall, 2190 Campus Drive
Center for Catalysis and Surface Science (CCSS) Student Seminar Series Friday, February 21, 2025 | 12-1pm CT Ryan Hall, ...
Mar
7
2025

CCSS March Seminar: Kelsey Stoerzinger

12:00 PM Ryan Hall, 2190 Campus Drive
Center for Catalysis and Surface Science (CCSS) Seminar Series Friday, March 7, 2025 | 12-1pm CT Ryan Hall, 4003 | 2190 ...

Featured Event

MSES info session graphic

Info Session| MS in Energy and Sustainability

February 5, 2025

Learn about the Master of Science in Energy & Sustainability (MSES) program and application process at an online info session on Feb. 5 | Register to attend