Professor Lee researches on new materials for lithium-ion batteries and room temperature direct alcohol fuel cells for portable applications. He is well cited for his works on carbon-tin composite anode materials for lithium ion batteries, carbon-nanotube supported anode catalysts, fuel-tolerant cathode catalysts and alcohol-blocking polymer electrolyte membranes for direct alcohol fuel cells. He also works on shape- and size-controlled synthesis of nanoparticles and “green synthesis” of metal nanoparticles with simple micro-organisms and small biomolecules. His new interests include photolysis of water and microbial fuel cells. He has coordinated several energy-related initiatives for the Faculty of Engineering at NUS.