Michael D. Irwin, PhD, is the Founder and CEO of MCatalysis, a Dallas-based deep tech company advancing energy security through microwave catalysis innovation to produce low-cost, clean synthetic fuels from waste carbon resources.

Irwin holds a PhD in Inorganic Chemistry from Northwestern University and a BA in Chemistry, bringing over 15 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur and scientist in the energy and materials sectors.

Irwin secured an exclusive worldwide license from Oxford University Innovation for MCatalysis's core microwave catalysis technology, positioning the company at the forefront of the sustainable fuels revolution.

Prior to MCatalysis, Irwin co-founded DirectH2, founded ElectroFueled in Lausanne, Switzerland, and served as Founder and CTO of Hunt Perovskite Technologies, as well as founding DFW-based HEE Solar.

MCatalysis closed a $5M seed round in 2026, established a European subsidiary and first industrial prototype at the Axel'One platform in Lyon, France, and is targeting commercial-scale production of drop-in fuels below commodity cost.