Hassonil “HJ” Jones II

Hassonil “HJ” Jones II has been fascinated by the power of science to solve real-world problems since an early age. A middle school science fair project sparked what would become a lasting passion for chemical engineering.

“That experience opened my eyes to how chemistry and problem-solving could be used to actually change the world,” Jones says. “As I grew, so did my interest in using science to tackle real challenges in energy, materials and sustainability.”

That passion led him to Arizona State University, where he pursued a degree in chemical engineering in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering. He was drawn to ASU’s combination of academic rigor, innovation and hands-on opportunities.

“I wanted a university where I could grow as a research-driven, impact-focused engineer,” Jones says.

During his time at ASU, Jones immersed himself in research at the intersection of materials science and energy systems. Through multiple Summer Undergraduate Research Initiative, or SURI, projects in the lab of Nick Rolston, an assistant professor of electrical engineering, he studied solid-state battery materials, including lithium phosphorus oxynitride, or LiPON, thin films. His work focused on improving the safety, reliability and scalability of next-generation energy storage systems.

The biggest “aha” moment for Jones came during his SURI research projects.

“Seeing concepts from thermodynamics, transport and materials science actually work in the lab made everything click,” Jones says. “I wasn’t just studying engineering anymore; I was doing it. That experience confirmed I was exactly on the right path.”

Jones also contributed to team-based design work through projects like the MARS Project, where he helped develop an energy-efficient windshield wiper system and explored a gravity battery concept for off-grid energy storage. These experiences strengthened his ability to combine creativity with engineering fundamentals to solve complex problems.

Beyond the lab, Jones was deeply committed to mentorship and service. As an E2 lead counselor, he guided incoming engineering students through hands-on challenges and team-building experiences, helping them build confidence and community.

“Watching students grow from nervous to confident was incredibly rewarding,” he says.

A Grand Challenges Scholar, Jones credits his experiences at ASU with shaping both his technical skills and his perspective on engineering’s broader impact.

After graduation, he plans to continue his education through ASU’s Accelerated Master’s degree program while pursuing a career in materials and energy systems engineering in the Phoenix area.

“I want to be part of engineering solutions that make everyday life safer, cleaner and more efficient,” he says.

Favorites

Hobby: Going to the gym and staying active
TV show: Everybody Hates Chris
Activity: Playing water polo and hiking around Arizona
Sports teams: ASU Football and ASU Basketball
Game: Marvel: Contest of Champions (Cosmic Invasion)

Read about other exceptional graduates of the Fulton Schools’ spring 2026 class.

Written by Erik Wirtanen