As fossil fuel reserves dwindle and the global energy crisis intensifies, materials scientists are finding ways to turn the heat into opportunity—for one, by transforming what most might consider ‘waste heat’ into electricity. In capturing the excess heat from car engines, factories and other parts of our built environment, thermoelectric technologies are emerging as a set of promising solutions for cleaner and more sustainable energy systems.
These innovations rely on special materials called semiconductors, which can be engineered to control flows of electricity and heat. In thermoelectric devices, semiconductors can generate electric currents by creating a temperature difference between two surfaces, guiding electrons from the hotter surface to its colder counterpart.
One young researcher with an interest in thermoelectrics and their potential in greener energy technologies is Singapore International Graduate Award (SINGA) scholar Kivanc Saglik. As a PhD researcher based at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU) and A*STAR’s Institute of Materials Research and Engineering (IMRE), Saglik aims to overcome the hurdles of upcycling discarded electronics into new, functional semiconductors. By reducing the need for costly raw materials and energy-intensive processes, her work seeks to create a sustainable production cycle while meeting the growing demand for efficient, durable thermoelectric devices.
In this interview with A*STAR Research, Saglik reflects on her early fascination for chemistry and materials science, discusses the potential of thermoelectric technologies and offers perspectives on the challenges of STEM careers.
Q: Tell us about your journey as a scientist.
It started with a fascination for chemistry and materials science back in high school. I was that kid who loved mixing creams and perfumes at home, and watching them react and precipitate. I was always curious how things worked at the molecular level.
This curiosity naturally led me to study chemistry, where my interest in sustainable energy and environmental issues really took off. My final years at university included courses in sustainable development and environmental chemistry, which opened my eyes to how the way we produce energy impacts our planet. I became passionate about finding solutions to the energy crisis, the toxic nature of conventional energy sources, and the need for sustainable solutions to ensure a liveable world for future generations.
The SINGA scholarship was a pivotal moment in my journey that supported my dreams, both academic and personal. It provided me with the opportunity to conduct research at NTU’s School of Materials Science and Engineering, as well as IMRE—both renowned institutions. This allowed me to learn from leading experts in the field and broaden my academic horizons. Also, as an international student, I was able to immerse myself in Singapore’s rich culture, which greatly enriched my personal development.
Q: Why did thermoelectric technology fascinate you in particular?
Thermoelectric technology offers a unique way to generate energy with zero waste and no environmental impact. Unlike most other green energy technologies, which rely on direct energy sources, it focuses on capturing waste heat, a form of energy which is both abundant around us, and often otherwise lost.
I remember holding a thermoelectric generator during a demonstration at a seminar, and actually feeling the difference in temperature on its two sides—one cold and one hot. That was my first real encounter with the science behind thermoelectricity! I later learned that this phenomenon is called the Peltier effect, the principle behind sustainable refrigerators.
What excites me most about thermoelectric technology is its ability to minimise waste heat and sustainably convert energy. Thermoelectric materials could power spacecraft, cars or even wearables without the need for toxic components. Your body could charge your smartwatch! Thermoelectricity can address the global energy crisis in a clean, non-toxic way, and I believe the field holds immense potential for sustainable innovation.
Q: How does your research address the challenges of upcycling waste into semiconductors?
A key challenge in this area is enhancing the ability of materials to effectively capture waste heat and convert it into useful energy. The properties of thermoelectric materials are often interlinked and inversely related, so improving one property negatively affects another. My research focuses on finding ways to decouple these properties to optimise them independently.
Another challenge is finding materials that are both abundant and non-toxic. While thermoelectric devices are known for their non-toxic nature, some of the highest-performing potential materials rely on scarce or toxic elements. My research is about finding ways to achieve top performance using environmentally-friendly materials instead.
Lastly, for thermoelectric devices to make a real impact, they need to be durable for long-term use. This requires a balance between maintaining strong performance and achieving long-term stability, which can be accomplished through enhanced mechanical properties. My research aims to find this balance, making these devices both effective and sustainable.
Q: What are some other interesting research projects you’ve worked on?
One exciting project I was involved in was “Data-Driven Innovations for Zero Pollution Mobility”, based in Imperial College London (ICL) and organised by ICL, NTU and the Technical University of Munich, Germany. In this project, we focused on urban planning that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) to monitor and manage air pollution. The idea was to use AI to navigate pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles in a way that keeps pollution levels below set thresholds, which could help reduce pollution hotspots and create a healthier urban environment.
Q: What excites you about your journey ahead as an early-career researcher?
The opportunity to become a faculty member; I look forward to teaching and mentoring students, passing on what I have learned, and helping them grow. At the same time, I’m eager to continue improving myself as a researcher in my field. It’s the combination of these two roles that truly motivates me.
Q: What advice would you give young STEM graduates?
Pursuing a career in STEM can be really challenging. Research often involves a lot of trial and error, frustrations and long waits between experiments. You might face many failed attempts and inconsistent results. A PhD is especially tough with challenges like having to adapt to a new culture and being away from family. It is easy to feel discouraged when things aren’t going well.
But if you step back and look at the bigger picture, it’s incredibly rewarding to know that you are working towards your dreams and making a difference. Remember that our world needs the contributions of scientists—so stay focused on our dreams and goals. Keep calm and keep pushing forward!
