Post-Doctoral Research Assistant

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the area of vacuum deposition and processing of quantum-cutting photovoltaics devices.

The position is available for a fixed term of 36 months from time of appointment.

This project is associated with an exciting new EPSRC/UKRI-funded Programme Grant entitled “Advanced Device Concepts for Next-Generation Photovoltaics.” This collaborative project between Oxford Physics, Materials and Chemistry and Liverpool Chemistry brings together expertise in photovoltaic materials synthesis and device fabrication, advanced characterisation and modelling. The ambition for this project is to carry out multidisciplinary research, via inter-linked work streams, that will explore and conceive four new photovoltaic device concepts and paradigms, enabling the next major step-change in photovoltaic efficiency. New devices architectures, concentrator PV, quantum cutting, hot-carrier collection and photon transport, will be explored and enabled by absorber materials based on metal-halide perovskites, silicon, and novel low-band-gap chalcogenide-halide semiconductors, supported by fundamental experimental characterisation and materials modelling. Addressing these future advanced concepts through a holistic approach will enable key scientific discoveries and important major technical advances enabling the next generation of PV technologies for beyond 2030.

This role will focus on the development of new “quantum cutting” perovskite solar cells.   The post will involve the design and fabrication of perovskite solar cells via vacuum deposition techniques.  It will involve process design, control and optimisation based on feedback from material and device characterisation. The post holder will make use of the National Thin Film Cluster for Vapour Deposition of Advanced Functional Materials as well as an experimental custom-built deposition system.  Extensive materials and device fabrication characterisation facilities in Oxford Physics will also be utilised by the individual who will work closely with other experimentalists, theorists, chemists, materials scientists and spectroscopists working on the project.

Applicants should possess or be close to obtaining a PhD in physics, materials science, engineering or chemistry. They should be highly experienced in semiconductor device fabrication and characterisation.  They should be highly experienced in vacuum-based growth of semiconductor heterostructures, process design and process control.  The ability to design devices, characterise materials and devices as well as problem solving skills are essential.

Applicants should be highly motivated and have excellent skills in working collaboratively, as part of a team. A good track record of high-quality publications is essential. Having the ability to direct your own research and interpret your results independently is a must.

The University of Oxford and the Department of Physics offer an inclusive and diverse environment and workplace. We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and genders to apply.

The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.

Only applications received before midday 28th March 2024  can be considered. You will be required to upload a brief statement of research interests, CV and details of two referees as part of your online application.