Early Career Spotlight: Scientist Carlos Baez-Cotto's Journey From Puerto Rico to NREL

Early Career Spotlight: Scientist Carlos Baez-Cotto's Journey From Puerto Rico to NREL

Welcome to the Materials, Chemical, and Computational Science (MCCS) Early-Career Spotlight, a monthly feature showcasing the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's (NREL's) early-career researchers' interests, motivations, and achievements. This month, we are featuring Carlos Baez-Cotto, who has been a researcher at NREL since 2019.

Baez-Cotto is an NREL staff scientist focused on developing innovative and cost-effective formulation strategies to improve coating uniformity in electrodes for fuel cells, water electrolyzers, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) electrolyzers. By reducing coating defects, Baez-Cotto's work aims to enhance the performance and durability of devices that play a critical role in clean energy solutions-powering vehicles with fuel cells, producing hydrogen from water electrolyzers, and converting carbon dioxide into valuable fuels and chemicals with CO₂ electrolyzers.

From Puerto Rico to NREL: A Journey of Passion, Persistence, and Mentorship

Born in Caguas, Puerto Rico, Baez-Cotto embarked on a unique and fulfilling journey that led to an impactful career at NREL. With a deep commitment to scientific research and renewable energy, Baez-Cotto'spath was not always straightforward, but each experience shaped the scientist he has become today.

Early Academic Pursuits: A Foundation in Chemistry

Baez-Cottoearned a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the University of Puerto Rico-Cayey, where he developed a passion for scientific inquiry. The experience was transformative, not only for his academic growth but also for the way it shaped his understanding of what it means to be a scientist.

During college, Baez-Cottoparticipated in National Science Foundation-sponsored internships on the U.S. mainland. Thanks to the support of his supervisors, who allowed for flexible schedules, he was able to work full time while gaining hands-on research experience during the summers. These internships were pivotal in fueling Baez-Cotto'spassion for research and ultimately paved the way for graduate school.

Challenges and Triumphs: Graduate School and the Shift Toward Renewable Energy

After graduation, Baez-Cottomoved to the mainland to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Minnesota. As the first in his family to pursue an advanced degree and the only one to relocate to the U.S. mainland, Carlos did not have an easy transition. He faced language barriers, harsh winters, and the emotional challenge of missing milestones with family and friends back home.

But the journey took an unexpected turn when Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico. Witnessing his parents live without power for six months was a turning point for Baez-Cotto. It was a wake-up call that shifted his focus toward renewable energy. Though Baez-Cotto'sPh.D. thesis was focused on lyotropic liquid crystals, the experience of the hurricane inspired him to explore opportunities that could help build a more sustainable future, especially for communities impacted by natural disasters.

That motivation led Baez-Cottoto apply for a postdoctoral position in hydrogen energy at NREL. He felt compelled to contribute to renewable energy research, particularly in areas that could make a meaningful impact on energy security and sustainability.

At NREL: Pioneering Solutions in Energy Research

At NREL, Baez-Cottobrought his expertise in polymer science to make strides in energy research. His work focuses on improving fuel cells and electrolysis electrodes by developing formulations that enhance coating uniformity, performance, and durability. The work is both challenging and rewarding-Baez-Cottoknows he is contributing to a field that has the potential to change the future of energy.

"Taking that leap into renewable energy research was a risk, but one I'm grateful for every day," Baez-Cottosaid. "I'm able to work on projects that align with my passion for science and my desire to make a real difference in the world."

The Importance of Mentorship: Giving Back

One of the most rewarding aspects of Baez-Cotto'scareer so far has been the opportunity to mentor students and colleagues. Whether through NREL's Mentoring, Achievement, Teaming, Training, Engagement, and Recognition group or the Materials, Chemical, and Computational Science Safety Excellence Team, Baez-Cottohas taken on leadership roles that emphasize the importance of teamwork and mentorship in scientific research.

"I've had the privilege of mentoring students from diverse programs, and it's deeply rewarding to see how quality guidance can shape someone's career," Baez-Cottosaid.

Some of his mentees have gone on to achieve impressive milestones, including Andres Godoy, now a postdoc at Laboratoire Electrochimie et Physicochimie des Matériaux et des Interfaces (LEPMI) in France, and Shaylynn Crum, a technology manager at the U.S. Department of Energy.

Currently, Baez-Cottois mentoring Izzy Berry, Diana Zhang, and Ambar Maldonado-each contributing to vital research in fuel cell and electrolysis technologies. Through these mentorship relationships, Baez-Cottonot only shares his expertise but also learns and grows as a leader.

Balancing Work and Life: A Personal Approach

Despite the demanding nature of his work, Baez-Cotto has developed a healthy approach to work-life balance. One strategy that helps is maintaining a second personal phone for work apps like Outlook and Teams. By keeping this phone in his backpack after work hours, Baez-Cotto ensures he can disconnect from work and enjoy his personal time.

In his free time, he enjoys baking, playing video games, and staying active with Pokémon Go and volleyball.

Advice for the Future

Reflecting on his journey, Baez-Cottohas one piece of advice for his younger self.

"It's going to be a wild ride, but you'll become the scientist you dream of being. Never lose sight of who you are," Baez-Cottosaid. "Even on the toughest days, when you feel drained, keep practicing empathy. Treat others with respect, step into their shoes, and nurture strong relationships. This mindset will not only strengthen your connections but also open doors to leadership opportunities. Remember, no one achieves success alone."

Through resilience, hard work, and unwavering dedication, Baez-Cottocontinues to make significant contributions to renewable energy research while also mentoring the next generation of scientists.

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