PhD student position in electrical characterization of thin film solar cells - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Photovoltaics is one of the fastest growing renewable energy technologies. The potential is enormous, and an increased installation of solar cells is expected supported by continuous improvement in performance and reduction in cost. Thin film solar cells have the advantage that the active material can be very thin since sunlight absorption is effective. The division for Solar Cell Technology is working with fundamental understanding and development of efficient solar cells at low cost based on thin film technology. The solar cells are made from the established semiconductor Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) where device efficiencies exceeding 20% have been achieved in our lab and the less explored material Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) where the advantage is that only very abundant elements are used. We also work with so called tandem solar cells based on silicon or thin film solar cells as well as new materials for ultra-thin solar cells and transparent conductors. The research group has a fully equipped lab for cells and modules in the Ångström clean room.

Research project and work duties: We are now looking for a PhD student to work with electrical characterisation and modelling of solar cells. The aim is to increase the understanding of optical and electrical losses in different solar cell structures as a basis for increased performance. Questions concern long term stability in highly efficient solar cells and losses in new solar cells with large band gap energy, that are relevant for tandem solar cells. Electrical measurements, such as current-voltage, spectral respons and capacitance-based techniques are combined with optical measurements of films and complete stacks. Optical and electrical modelling of solar cell structures is used as a support in the characterisation.

The main task of a PhD student is to devote to his/her postgraduate education, which includes both participation in the research project and postgraduate training courses. The duties may also include participation in teaching and other institutional work, but at a maximum of 20% of working time.

Qualifications: Suitable background is a Master of Science in engineering physics/physics/electronics/materials science or equivalent. Previous experience in electrical or optical characterization and modelling of semiconductor devices or materials is meriting. Strong motivation for PhD studies, collaboration spirit and good communication skills in oral and written English are required.

Eligibility: Basic eligibility for postgraduate education has the one who has

• Graduation at the advanced level, or

• Completed course requirements of at least 240 higher education credits, of which 60 higher education credits at advanced level with content relevant to postgraduate education, or

• In any other way, within or outside Sweden, acquired equivalent knowledge that can be proven with diplomas and grades.

Regulations for doctoral students can be found in the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 5, §§ 1-7, and in the University's rules and guidelines http://regler.uu.se/.

Applications should include a brief description of research interest and past experience, CV, copies of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of your Master thesis (or a draft thereof) and other relevant documents. The candidates are encouraged to provide letter(s) of recommendation and contact information to reference persons.

Uppsala University aims for gender balance and diversity in all activities in order to achieve a higher quality at all levels of the organization. We therefore welcome applicants of any gender and with different birth background, functionality and life experience.

Salary: According to local  agreement for PhD students

Starting date: Spring 2020

Type of employment: Temporary position according to the Higher Education Ordinance, chapter 5 §7

Scope of employment: 100%

For more information please contact Professor Charlotte Platzer-Björkman, e-mail: charlotte.platzer@angstrom.uu.se, phone +46(0)18-471 3120.

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 15th of March 2020, UFV-PA 2020/361.