WMG academic featured in inspiring new book for children
Monday 14 September 2026
WMG academic featured in inspiring new book for children
Dr Ivana HasaLink opens in a new window, Associate Professor of Electrochemical Materials at Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), University of Warwick, is featured in a new book designed to inspire the next generation of scientists.
Scientists Making a Difference by broadcaster and multi-award-winning engineer Dr Shini SomaraLink opens in a new window celebrates the many and varied careers shaping the future of science — and the incredible people behind them.
Ivana's story is one of 47 to be featured in the book, recognising the scientists and changemakers helping to make our world a better place.
In her chapter, 'How to Make Batteries Sustainable', Ivana explains how her work at WMG is helping the transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems through innovative battery technologies — namely, sodium-ion batteries.
Sodium-ion batteries are a gamechanger in the world of energy storage. Not only are they cost effective, but they are also less resource-intensive to produce than traditional lithium-ion batteries, helping to diversify battery technologies and supporting the growing demand for electrification. As a result, they are essential for a more resilient, responsible and sustainable energy future.
“It is a real privilege to be featured in Scientists Making a Difference", says Ivana. "What makes it especially meaningful to me is the opportunity to show young people that there is no single path into science, and that research in areas such as sustainable batteries can make a real contribution to the challenges we face. I hope the book inspires the next generation to see themselves as part of that future.”
Ivana and WMG's pioneering research will soon be shared with young people up and down the country, as copies of the book make their way to every state-funded secondary school in the UK to support STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education and inspire students to pursue a future in the field.
Scientists Making a Difference was published on Thursday 10 September 2026 by What on Earth Publishing Ltd Link opens in a new windowin collaboration with Imperial College LondonLink opens in a new window and The Gatsby Charitable Foundation. Link opens in a new windowYou can buy a copy of the book though the publisher's websiteLink opens in a new window and at all good bookshops.
Find out more about battery innovation at WMG: Battery Materials & Cells Group | WMG University of WarwickLink opens in a new window