Professional Biography
Alan Jenn is an assistant professor in the Civil and Environmental Engineering department at the University of California Davis. He is also an active researcher with the Institute of Transportation Studies as part of both the Electric Vehicle Research Center and the Energy Futures Center. He graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a PhD in the department of Engineering and Public Policy (EPP) and has undergraduate degrees in Molecular and Cell Biology, Music, and Energy and Resources from the University of California, Berkeley.
Research Contributions
Dr. Alan Jenn's research at the University of California, Davis, primarily focuses on the intersection of energy and transportation, with a special emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs) and their integration with the energy grid. His work critically evaluates the lifecycle emissions of EVs, considering factors like electricity generation and vehicle usage patterns. A significant portion of his research is dedicated to the strategic deployment of EV charging infrastructure, addressing challenges in urban planning and grid capacity. Additionally, Dr. Jenn explores the potential of hydrogen as an energy carrier for future transportation systems, examining the economics and logistics of hydrogen supply chains. His contributions also extend to innovations in transportation finance and the role of EVs in new mobility services. Dr. Jenn's interdisciplinary approach, combining engineering, policy, and economics, has been instrumental in shaping sustainable transportation strategies and informing policy discussions.
Teaching and Mentoring
In addition to his research, Dr. Jenn is dedicated to teaching and mentorship. He brings a unique combination of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise to his teaching, fostering an interactive and engaging learning environment. His pedagogical approach emphasizes the integration of real-world applications with theoretical concepts, preparing students to address complex challenges in the fields of energy and transportation. He has developed and taught courses in data analytics, energy systems modeling, electric vehicles, and power systems. His commitment to education is also evident in his role as a faculty adviser for a significant number of graduate students in both the Transportation Technology and Policy and Energy System graduate groups.
Public Engagement and Service
Dr. Jenn actively engages in public service and outreach activities, including legislative testimony and workshops with regulators. He has served on several committees and panels, contributing his expertise to the advancement of sustainable transportation and energy policies. Additionally, his work includes a period as an Intergovernment Personnel Act Visiting Scholar at the United States Department of Transportation and the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation. Alan has also served as an author on both the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change's AR6 report and the National Climate Assessment's Fifth Report.