A nanostructured ternary transition metal oxide, ZnFe2O4, is synthesized via the simple polymer pyrolysis method. The characteristics of the material are examined by thermogravimetry. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical test results show that this method of ZnFe2O4 synthesis produces high specific capacities and good cycling performance, with an initial specific capacity as high as 1419.6 mAh g(-1) at first discharge that is maintained at over 800 mAh g(-1) even after 50 charge-discharge cycles. The electrode also presents a good rate capability, with a high rate of 4C (1C= 928 mA g(-1)), a reversible specific capacity that can be as high as 400 mAh g(-1). ZnFe2O4 is a potential alternative to high-performance nanostructured anode material in lithium ion batteries. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.