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  PhD in Chemistry – Perovskite solar cells


   College of Science and Engineering

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  Dr Pablo Docampo  No more applications being accepted  Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)

About the Project

Bright, highly motivated candidates are invited to apply for a fully funded 3.5 year PhD position in the School of Chemistry, available to commence on 1st October 2021 in the Docampo research group at the University of Glasgow. As this is a multidisciplinary project at the intersection between chemistry, physics and engineering, we encourage applicants from any of these three fields to apply.

Perovskite solar cells have the potential to revolutionise solar power generation. The devices are printable and low-cost, but simultaneously deliver power conversion efficiencies that match current commercial solar panels. They are almost ‘purpose-made’ for the UK as the devices actually outperform standard materials in cloudy weather, and will undoubtedly help to transition to a fully net zero energy economy.

This project will take advantage of our recent development of a perovskite solar cell device architecture that includes a novel type of perovskite 2D-layered structure as the charge extraction material. These layered materials self-assemble from solution into atomically thin ‘quantum-well’-like structures and their optoelectronic properties can be tuned by the appropriate choice of ligand. The project will thus focus on developing new ‘electronically-active’ ligands to fabricate novel 2D perovskite materials and maximize charge transport in these systems. The developed materials will then be implemented in real-world devices by fabricating and characterizing complete perovskite solar cells with the overarching goal of improving their performance and stability.

The ideal candidate will hold (or expect to hold) a 1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc degree in Chemistry, Physics or Engineering or equivalent. The student can expect to become an expert in solar cell fabrication and characterization through hands-on experience in the design, synthesis and analysis of all the device layers, electronic measurements, solar cell device physics, crystallographic techniques as well as transient spectroscopy techniques.

Prospective candidates should contact Dr Docampo for information by email – [Email Address Removed] – with a CV and cover letter, as soon as possible.

It is the University of Glasgow’s mission to foster an inclusive climate, which ensures equality in our working, learning, research and teaching environment.

We strongly endorse the principles of Athena SWAN, including a supportive and flexible working environment, with commitment from all levels of the organisation in promoting gender equality.

As an Athena SWAN Bronze Award holder, the School of Chemistry has equality, diversity and inclusion at its heart, and actively supports applications from all sections of society.

More details of the School’s Athena SWAN activities can be found here:

https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/chemistry/abouttheschool/athenaswan/

How to Apply: Please refer to the following website for details on how to apply:

http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/opportunities/howtoapplyforaresearchdegree/.

Start-date: 1 October 2021.

Eligibility: 1st or upper 2nd class MSc / MChem / BSc or equivalent degree in Chemistry, Physics or Engineering or equivalent.

Chemistry (6) Engineering (12)

Funding Notes

Funding is available to cover tuition fees for UK/EU applicants for 3.5 years, as well as paying a stipend at the Research Council rate (estimated £15,560 for Session 2021-22).