Direct outcomes of SPECS will be mechanistic insights and new physiochemical models of fundamental structure-property relationships of π-conjugated polymer platforms. Models based on fundamental chemistry will drive the search for anode and cathode materials at electrochemically reactive interfaces (catalysis) and buried atomic-to-nano interfaces that comprise the bulk (storage). These mechanistic insights require developing new measurement science approaches, which will be a high impact legacy of SPECS. We will advance characterization and operando approaches, under both environmental and operational “stresses,” examining materials in near-surface, interface, and interphase regions, under conditions that push soft materials and platforms far from equilibrium. Fundamental insights gained by SPECS will translate across Science for Clean Energy applications, including connections to existing BES (EFRC and Hub) programs. SPECS research products will be disseminated to the greater scientific community through high-impact journal articles and creation of new intellectual property. SPECS represents a scientifically and demographically Diverse and Inclusive Team that fosters new knowledge discovery coupled to unique mentoring and student training, targeted to development of an inclusive next generation workforce needed to meet U.S. 2050 clean energy goals as well as Energy Justice initiatives.