Photovoltaic-electrocatalytic integrated devices for solar chemicals

This PhD studentship funded by EPSRC and industrial partners aims to harness solar energy for producing valuable chemicals, such as hydrogen and carbon products, from small molecules like carbon dioxide and water. By developing advanced photoelectrochemical (PEC) cells, the project will integrate photovoltaic absorbers, specifically halide perovskites or organic bulk heterojunctions, with innovative catalysts to enable integrated solar devices for highly efficient clean chemical production.

Halide perovskites and organic bulk heterojunctions offer exceptional optoelectronic properties but face challenges with stability in aqueous environments, essential for solar fuel production. The student will explore protective strategies using carbon allotropes and electrochemically stable metal layers to enhance both stability and catalytic efficiency. By aligning device architecture and reaction pathways, the project will mitigate degradation, voltage losses, and improve long-term performance. The project will involve experimental syntheses, wide characterization with advanced techniques such as microscopies and spectroscopies, and tests under simulated sunlight. The student will also learn to integrate and apply their research within the industrial system, understanding the key barriers and opportunities for reaching net zero. This will involve business and professional skills, including secondment to the industry partner.

Through novel approaches, the student will contribute to groundbreaking advances in material science, chemical engineering, catalysis, renewable energy, and industrial systems. This interdisciplinary work will provide extensive training in cutting-edge solar technologies. The collaboration with industry partners will ensure scalability, commercial viability, and real-world application. The developed technologies will support the UK’s transition to net-zero emissions, while driving sustainable innovation across sectors.

This PhD project will be carried out in specialized labs in Applied Energy Materials at Imperial College South Kensington campus, supervised by Dr Salvador Eslava. The student should have a background in chemistry, chemical engineering, physics, or related. The available funds cover home tuition fees, stipend to assist with living costs, and consumables for the research. Overseas student applications are welcome if they have alternative funding sources.

To submit an application, contact s.eslava@imperial.ac.uk with CV, transcript, and motivation letter