Lior Sepunaru

Prof. Lior Sepunaru is a faculty member at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where his research group investigates the frontiers of bioelectrochemistry and nanoscale catalysis. His lab develops electrochemical tools to measure and control biological and chemical processes, with projects ranging from single-particle hydrogen generation to the design of advanced biosensors. Central to this work is leveraging electricity as both a probe of reaction thermodynamics and kinetics, and as a handle to manipulate molecules and biomolecules. Prof. Sepunaru’s research and teaching have been recognized with the NIH MIRA Award, the Rising Star in Measurement Science Award, and a campus-wide teaching award. He is also deeply committed to mentorship and outreach, training graduate and undergraduate students while fostering diversity in STEM. His group’s interdisciplinary approach—integrating chemistry, biology, and physics—highlights how electrochemistry can advance catalysis and redefine t