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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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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. 

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Upcoming Events

Oct
13
2025

Stefan Kaskel Seminar

12:00 PM Ryan Hall, 2190 Campus Drive
Stefan Kaskel Seminar Join the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and  Energy for a seminar conducted by Pro...
Oct
14
2025

2025 Engineering Career Fair (formerly SWE Industry Day)

11:00 AM Norris University Center, 1999 Campus Drive
Northwestern’s 2025 Engineering Career Fair (formerly SWE Industry Day)     Co-hosted by NU Society of Women Engineers S...
Oct
14
2025

Trienens/INVO panel -- "Fundraising for Energy and Sustainability Startups"

3:30 PM Technological Institute, 2145 Sheridan Road
Please join the Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy, the INVO Trienens Q-Accelerator, and Freshwat...

Featured Event

Distinguished Lecture: Ali Zaidi

Distinguished Lecture: Ali Zaidi

September 30, 2025

Join us for an enlightening lecture by Ali Zaidi, a leading expert in energy and climate policy, innovation, and investment. From 2022 to 2025, he served as assistant to the president and U.S. national climate advisor, heading the White House Climate Policy Office and serving as former President Biden's top advisor on domestic climate policy.