Jean-Marie Tarascon focuses his research on the chemistry of materials for energy storage and conversion. He examines ways to improve the capacity of lithium-ion batteries to store energy — from a ‘green energy’ perspective. In particular, he is noted for his development of thin and flexible plastic lithium batteries in which the liquid electrolyte is replaced with a leak-free, polymer alternative.

Early in his career, Jean-Marie investigated high-temperature superconducting materials, with the aim of limiting energy losses. Then, in the 1990s, he began to pursue his interest in developing new electrodes and polymers for plastic lithium-ion batteries. Over the years, Jean-Marie has set up and led a number of European energy storage research networks such as RS2E.

He is the recipient of a number of awards, including the 2011 ENI Protection of the Environment Award in recognition of his contributions to the development of high-performance–low-cost batteries. In 2005, Jean-Marie was elected to join the French Académie des sciences and in 2009, he received the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur — France’s highest decoration.