PhD student in Energy material physics with specialization on Solar cells - Hiring in process/Finished, not possible to apply

The research conducted at the Department of Physics and Astronomy encompasses a wide range of topics in physics, distributed over ten divisions. The department is located in the Ångström laboratory and employs nearly 400 people, 125 of whom are doctoral students. It offers a broad physics curriculum to undergraduate and graduate students, participation in nationally and internationally leading projects for researchers, and opportunities for partnership with industry and various outreach activities. More information to be found on our website www.physics.uu.se.

The Division of X-ray Photon Science is world-leading in the development of x-ray-based spectroscopy. It includes the program Condensed Matter Physics of Energy Materials, and conducts research to develop our understanding of electronic properties at the atomic level in new functional, for applications in energy and environmental technologies.

Project description: Among the different emerging energy technologies, optoelectronic devices based on perovskite metal halides are a rising star. These include highly efficient solar cells. The accelerating development demands detailed knowledge of the atomic processes that contribute to efficient energy conversion. Advanced methodologies that have been developed by the Division of X-ray Photon Science constitute unique tools to acquire such knowledge. This includes new opportunities for Photoelectron Spectroscopy and X-ray absorption for understanding the physics of solar cells. This project focuses on interface characterization of well-defined Perovskites, specifically chalcogenide single crystals, with the information obtained being compared to findings on polycrystalline films and targeted towards development of real functional device structures. A specific focus is on understanding electronic properties and their relation to selective electron/hole transfer processes at interfaces and on a device operation. The project spans fundamental to applied research.

Work duties: To investigate the electronic structure of new perovskite materials using in-house and synchrotron-based X-ray spectroscopy and complementary methodologies. to actively engage in in-situ sample preparation for fundamental studies of perovskite material interfaces to use the experimental results in modeling the physics that limit the efficiency of the materials, and in the development of design rules for new device structures

The successful candidate for this PhD student position will have opportunity to study a variety of solar cell materials, specifically chalcogenides, using x-ray-based methodologies such as photoemission and x-ray absorption and complementary techniques. The candidate will be part of a collaborative research group that share the same general goal of unraveling the mechanisms that take place in such interesting and challenging energy materials.

The position of Ph.D. student is limited to four years of full-time studies, consisting of research and coursework. Other duties at the department, related to teaching and administration, may extend the position at a level of most 20%. Further information is available at www.physics.uu.se.

Requirements: The candidate should be highly motivated to pursue experimental x-ray-based research in an active team with interest to immerse oneself into physics aspects as well as advanced sample preparation aspects. The candidate should hold a master’s degree (or equivalent) in physics (possibly physical chemistry).

Fluency in both spoken and written English is an absolute prerequisite.

Additional qualifications: A solid education in materials physics or equivalent.

Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

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

Application: The application should include a personal letter, explaining scientific interests and motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. degree, CV, and a verified list of course grades. If available, a Master’s thesis (finished or in draft form) can also be included. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included.

Salary: According to local agreement for PhD students.
 
Starting date: 2021-10-01 or as otherwise agreed.

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: Håkan Rensmo, hakan.rensmo@physics.uu.se, 070-1679145.

Please submit your application by 26 August 2021, UFV-PA 2021/3011.

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