PhD student postion in solar cell modules in practical use - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

Admission to PhD studies in the subject engineering science with specialization in electronics

Each hour, the sun provides more energy than humankind consumes in one year. An effective way to utilize solar energy is with solar cells, which today are the fastest growing renewable energy source. At the Division of Solar Cell Technology, we focus on the latest developments in the field of solar cells, where we conduct research in the area between materials science, electronics and physics. Our solar cells are based on thin film technology and the research is carried out in the department's fully equipped process and measurement labs at the Ångström Laboratory. We collaborate with other Swedish departments and companies in the area, and have a large international network as well.

Our doctoral students often focus on one or more specific parts of a solar cell device, where test solar cells are manufactured and characterized to evaluate if a particular new design works well or not. More information can be found at https://www.materialvetenskap.uu.se.

The division of Solar Cell Technology currently consists of 21 people, five of whom are doctoral students, and is led by Professor Marika Edoff.

Project description: Within their modules, solar cells are exposed to various kinds of stresses during use, where solar cells made of thin film materials have a specific set of properties and challenges that must be dealt with. How should modules be designed to be simultaneously aesthetically pleasing, have high performance and be stable for many years in buildings or other environments? An example is what happens to solar modules in partially shaded environments, when the illuminated cells dump energy into those that are shaded, leading to problems with local heat generation. We will explore ways to get around, or reduce the impact of the shading problem.

Work duties: The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

This doctoral position will focus on solar modules and their functionality. The research includes electrical characterization of solar cells and implementation of the measured results in computer models, to advance the understanding of the electrical properties. One-dimensional models are often used when modeling solar cells, but for this type of problem, 2-D or 3-D models are needed.

Qualification requirements: Master's degree in materials science, materials chemistry, engineering physics, electronics or equivalent.

For this position, we are looking for a candidate with a background in electronics and component simulations, preferably with knowledge in finite element modeling (FEM). Solid knowledge in electronics and semiconductor physics is a requirement.

We require very good oral and written proficiency in English

Other qualifications: Personal qualities, such as the ability to manage and run scientific projects and to simultaneously interact with other researchers are very important. The applicant needs to be determined, structured and able to work efficiently both individually and in groups.

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programs if he or she:

-  has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or

-  has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or

-  has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Rules governing PhD students are set out in the Higher Education Ordinance chapter 5, §§ 1-7 and in Uppsala University's rules and guidelines.

Instruction for application:

Your application should contain:

1) A short letter describing yourself, your goals and why you want to become a PhD student

2) CV (max 2 pages)

3) Copy of the master's degree and course grades

4) Names and contact information (e-mail and telephone) to two reference persons who have agreed to act as reference for you. 

5) Copies (or drafts thereof) of thesis work and other documents, such as publications, which you wish to invoke

Salary: According to local collective agreement for PhD students

Starting date: As soon as possible or by agreement.

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

Scope of employment: 100%

For further information about the position please contact professor Marika Edoff, marika.edoff@angstrom.uu.se

Please submit your application no later than 31st of August 2021, UFV-PA 2021/2843

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