Postdoctoral position on synchrotron characterization of thin film solar cells - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Temporary full-time employment for two years starting summer 2021 or by agreement.

The research will be conducted within the Division of Solar Cell Technology which is part of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at the Ångström Laboratory.  Researchers within the solar cell division work with a fundamental understanding and development of efficient solar cells at low cost based on thin film technology. The solar cells are made of the established semiconductor material Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS), where the group showed over 20% efficiency, and the less explored material Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) where the big advantage is that only very common elements are used. The division consists of about 20 people and manufactures complete solar cells and modules in its own lab in the Ångström Laboratory's clean room. More information is available on our website https://www.materialvetenskap.uu.se/research/solar-cell-technology/.

Project description: The purpose of the project is to study thin film solar cell materials at the atomic level using synchrotron spectroscopy. At present, the development of cost-effective, high-efficiency thin film solar cells is limited by the lack of understanding of these complex material systems. Since the thin film solar cells properties may change during their fabrication or applications, it is important to not only study the static physiochemical properties of such materials but also their dynamics under in situ conditions.

Work duties: The work will focus on monitoring the atomic and electronic structures of thin film solar cells close to the interfacial regions under processing or outdoor relevant environments and operating conditions. Some examples of materials systems to be investigated include CZTS- and CIGS-based thin film solar cells, but also other solar cell materials of interest in our division. Specially, X-ray photoelectron and absorption spectroscopies with complementary information depths will be applied for the in situ and operando investigations of thin film solar cells under controllable gas atmosphere, temperature, light illumination or voltage bias. The measurements will allow monitoring how the solar cells properties change during complex fabrication steps, device degradation from annealing treatments or during operation conditions which will contribute to the development of more stable and more effective solar cells.

The work includes sample preparation, data analysis and publication of research results. Most of the experimental work is expected to be carried out at large scale synchrotron radiation facilities around the world such as MAX IV, DESY, Diamond, Soleil, but also synthesis of dedicated sample for analysis in the Ångstrom Laboratory clean room. Opportunities to explore new ideas related to the research area through discussions with other division members are strongly encouraged. Part of the work will be carried out in collaboration with national and international collaborators.

Qualification requirements: To qualify for an employment as a postdoctor you must have a PhD degree or a foreign degree equivalent to a PhD degree.  The PhD degree must have been obtained no more than three years prior to the application deadline. The three year period can be extended due to circumstances such as sick leave, parental leave, etc.

This position requires a doctoral degree in degree in physics, materials science or other relevant field for the position.

We require documented experience of synchrotron-based techniques such as X-ray photoelectron and/or absorption spectroscopies, or other relevant techniques for the project, and associated data analysis.

Very good oral and written proficiency in English is a requirement.

The successful candidate is expected to plan and conduct high-quality research in a structured and methodical way and be able to communicate and collaborate effectively with doctoral students and researchers in the division in a collaborative and supportive environment. Great emphasis will be placed on personal competence and suitability.

Additional qualifications: Experience in thin film technology, photovoltaics and/or semiconductor materials is considered to be an advantage.

Application procedure: The application shall include:

• Cover letter including a short description of your research interests and relevant skills and motivation of why you want to work as a postdoctoral researcher/fellow and why you are suitable for the position (max 2 pages)
• CV (max 2 pages)
• List of publications
• Copy of your PhD degree, grades and a copy of your thesis. Translations into English or Swedish if the original documents have not been issued in any of these languages
• Name and contact information to at least two reference persons (e-mail address and phone no.)

Salary: Individual salary.

Starting date: Summer 2021 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position 2 years according to central collective agreement.

Scope of employment: 100 %.

For further information about the position please contact: project leader Dr. Natalia Martin, Natalia.Martin@angstrom.uu.se.

Please submit your application by 15 April 2021, UFV-PA 2021/817.

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