University College London
Project description
The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at UCL is excited to announce a cutting-edge PhD project in Emerging Photovoltaic Technologies. The project is focussed on advancing solution-processed perovskite solar cells, with a particular emphasis on tandem configurations that are setting new standards for power conversion efficiency. These tandem cells integrate the proven performance of traditional silicon photovoltaics with the innovative properties of perovskites, thereby capturing a wider spectrum of solar energy. A particularly promising research direction involves developing perovskite-perovskite tandems, noted for their low-temperature processing and tunable bandgaps.
The project’s primary goal is to develop perovskites with a narrow bandgap that are both highly emissive and stable. The PhD candidate will engage in a multidisciplinary field, blending principles of engineering, materials science, physics, and chemistry to make advances in renewable energy technology. Their research will be crucial in optimising semiconductor films for narrow bandgap perovskite absorber layers and in enhancing the entire solar cell production process. Candidates will investigate the fundamental photophysical properties that impact charge transfer in solar cells, mastering advanced material characterisation techniques, such as steady-state and transient photoluminescence spectroscopy. They will also acquire a broad set of transferable skills, encompassing project management, communication, and leadership.
This project paves the way for high-impact research, offering the PhD candidate opportunities to publish in top-tier journals and present their findings at both national and international conferences. An integral part of the project is the international collaboration, necessitating the candidate’s direct involvement with our semiconductor research team in Taichung, Taiwan. Supported by expert mentorship and with access to world-class facilities, their research is anticipated to make a pivotal contribution to global sustainability efforts and to yield a meaningful and lasting influence.
Applications are invited from candidates who are driven to make contributions towards a sustainable future and to progress their careers within a supportive and vibrant research community.
Funding
This is a fully funded 3-year studentship to cover the Home student’s tuition fees plus a £20,622/year stipend for living costs increasing with inflation, as well as a top-up contribution towards travel and consumables. Although the fees are only covered at the Home rate, Overseas candidates are still welcome to apply. However, they would need to fund the difference between home and overseas fees themselves (e.g. through another award or self-funding) and specify this in their application.
Application details
Eligibility requirements:
Candidates should have or expect to achieve an excellent degree(s) in Electronic Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry or a related discipline.
The ideal candidate would have experience in and passion for one or more of the following:
- Materials Science, Nanotechnology and Semiconductors
- Understanding of Electrical Testing and Materials Characterisation
- Chemistry and Physics
The candidate should pass the entry requirements of PhD programme at UCL EEE: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/research-degrees/electronic-and-electrical-engineering-mphil-phd
How to apply:
Applications must be made using the UCL online application system by using the UCL postgraduate study application form. Please mark it to the attention of Dr Tom Macdonald.
To apply for this job please visit www.ucl.ac.uk.