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Jatinder Sampathkumar is a PhD graduate from Mechanical Engineering and is currently working on new renewable energy technologies at Amogy.

Jatinder Sampathkumar

Tell us about your current role. What are you working on?

I am a senior systems engineer at Amogy, where I facilitate collaboration between the research and development (R&D) and product development teams. I’m part of the team responsible for designing, packaging, manufacturing, testing and integrating our product's hardware elements. I collaborate closely with our customers to understand their specific needs and interface with certification and regulatory bodies to ensure our products meet safety standards and help shape new regulations for ammonia-powered systems. 

What makes ammonia interesting as an energy source?

Ammonia, a century-old chemical produced from hydrogen and atmospheric nitrogen, has traditionally served as a fertilizer precursor. It has a superior energy density compared to hydrogen and existing battery chemistries and can provide a carbon-neutral solution for transporting and storing clean energy. Technological advancements including efficient ammonia cracking, direct ammonia propulsion and hybrid fuel blends have opened new avenues for its use in transportation. The existing infrastructure, public familiarity and technological maturity of ammonia from its agricultural applications also contribute to its potential as an energy source.

What kinds of applications are a good fit for Amogy's technology? Where do you see it making an impact?

Currently, the shipping industry is responsible for 3% of global carbon dioxide emissions through its annual consumption of 300 million tons of fossil fuels, making it a key focus area for Amogy's products. Amogy recently , marking an important step in demonstrating the capabilities of carbon-free sustainable solutions. Our technology can also be easily adapted for electricity generation in other sectors, such as stationary power generation for critical infrastructure sites, off-grid or remote locations and port-side applications.

How does what you do now connect back to your work as a PhD student?

My research with the Labbe and Boulder Experimental Electronics and Manufacturing (BEEM) labs focused on designing and manufacturing miniature flow devices for evaluating sustainable fuel candidates at the molecular level. I dedicated significant time to applying core mechanical engineering principles to enhance existing experiments that assess the chemical behavior of these fuels. I continue to apply this expertise at Amogy, where we translate experimental findings and theoretical models into practical product capabilities. My experience in the graduate design program has also been instrumental in equipping me with the tools to tackle design challenges from a user-centric perspective. It has emphasized the importance of iterative design as we move from ideation to the operational deployment of products.

What advice do you have for students interested in working on new, more sustainable energy sources?

Sustainable energy development is an urgent global priority, particularly as we strive to combat climate change and diversify our energy sources. One of the most essential skills to cultivate is curiosity. Staying informed about the rapidly evolving energy landscape is crucial. Understanding which technologies are being explored and identifying key sectors for diversification can drive meaningful progress. Engaging in interdisciplinary learning is also vital, as creating sustainable solutions requires collaboration among individuals from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.