Fully Funded PhD: Highly Efficient Elastic Perovskite Solar Cells for Integration with Robotics

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) based on organic-inorganic metal halide perovskite absorber materials have revolutionized photovoltaics research worldwide with the steepest ever increase in the power conversion efficiency from 3.8% in 2009 to 22.7% as of March 2017. Almost all the studies reported on PSCs are based on rigid (glass) or flexible (polymer or metal) substrates. For wide range of promising applications involving integration on curvilinear surfaces (e.g. bio-medical devices, smart prosthetics, robotics etc.) it is important to have elastic solar cells. The focus of this PhD project is thus to develop efficient mouldable PSCs for integration with Robotics.

Team: The successful candidate will work with Dr. Aruna Ivaturi [EPSRC Fellow, Chancellor’s Fellow and Lecturer (Assistant Professor) at Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathcylde] and will interact with Materials and Computational group in the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry and with Semiconductor Spectroscopy and Devices group with in Nanoscience Division in the Department of Physics at University of Strathclyde. Secondments in world leading national groups (Department of Physics, University of Oxford; School of Chemistry & Scottish Microelectronic Centre, University of Edinburgh) and international groups (Department of Physics, Johannes Kepler University) as well as industrial partners (Shadow Robotics, G24, NSG Pilkington) are also envisaged.

Start Date: ASAP

Candidate: You will have a background in material science/chemistry/physics/engineering. Hands on experience in any one or more of the following would be advantageous - microelectronic fabrication techniques, development of elastic materials, perovskite/organic/solid state dye-sensitised solar cells fabrication. A first-class honors or Masters with distinction is the qualification requirement or a combination of qualification and professional experience equivalent to that level (a minimum 2:1 degree or equivalent). Independent, self-motivation, good team spirit, and excellent communication skills are important assets of the successful candidate. The standard criteria for PG recruitment at University of Strathclyde also applies.

Eligibility criteria:
-First class honors or Masters with distinction (a minimum 2:1 degree or equivalent)
-Good references
-Evidence of some research experience e.g. Publication/Conference
-English language tests: IELTS (for non-UK candidates)

Please submit your application by e-mail to Dr Aruna Ivaturi ([Email Address Removed]), which should include:
• Cover letter, detailing your experience and motivation for PhD studies
• CV with two referee’s details included
• Other pertinent information (e.g., publications, awards and other distinctions)