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Paula M. Trienens Institute for Sustainability and Energy

We don't have to choose between abundant energy today and a sustainable planet tomorrow. At the Trienens Institute, Northwestern is proving that each one can drive the other.

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Read the latest news.

Sergio Dorado-Rojas

Mapping the future of power

October 5, 2026
Postdoctoral fellow Diana LaFollette will work with mentors Mercouri Kanatzidis and Richard Schaller to examine the fundamental processes that limit long-term stability in perovskite solar cells.

About the Trienens Institute

Creating abundant energy for a sustainable planet

We drive discoveries to power the future.

Neil Schweitzer and students in laboratory looking at equipment
Growing energy demand is driving investment in new energy technologies on a scale not seen in a century. The Trienens Institute sees this moment as an opportunity. We believe energy abundance and sustainability are complementary goals. Through world-class energy innovation, materials science, chemistry, and advanced engineering, Northwestern shows that meeting demand and protecting the planet reinforce each other.

R&D Pillars and Cross-Pillar Initiatives
Learn how the Trienens Institute leverages Northwestern's research capabilities to accelerate the transition to a clean-energy future.

Research Spotlight
Learn about Northwestern researchers applying artificial intelligence to accelerate scientific discovery in energy science. 

Empowering tomorrow's energy and sustainability leaders.

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.

Real-World Learning 
Hear from master's degree students about how the program's practicum project provides valuable, hands-on experience. 

Undergraduate Opportunities 
Learn how undergraduates can pursue interdisciplinary instruction in sustainability and energy while signaling broad topic proficiency to potential future employers.

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.

Industry Affiliates Program 
Our Industry Affiliates Program (IAP) organizes Northwestern resources to enable corporate engagement.

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

Stay Up to Date

Upcoming Events

Oct
15
2026

2026 IIN Rosemary Schnell Symposium

8:30 AM 1710 Orrington Ave
Please join us on Thursday, October 15, at the Hilton Orrington for the 2026 International Institute for Nanotechnology ...
Oct
16
2026

CCSS Student Seminar Series: Alexander Davis and Matthew Hayes

12:00 PM Ryan Hall, 2190 Campus Drive
Center for Catalysis and Surface Science (CCSS) Student Seminar Series Friday, October 16, 2026 | 12-1pm CT Ryan Hall, 4...
Oct
20
2026

Info session: Undergrad certificate in sustainability and energy

11:00 AM Technological Institute, 2145 Sheridan Road
Learn about the undergraduate certificate program in sustainability and energy. Discover upcoming opportunities, and fin...

Featured Event

MSES info session

MSES Info Session

September 25, 2026

Sign up for an online info session. You'll have an opportunity to learn about our program, connect with faculty, and hear our success stories. At the Alumni Panel Q&A, you'll have an opportunity to hear from alumni as well as ask questions.