Overview
Condensed Matter Physics, Department of Physics, Clarendon Laboratory Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PU
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant with expertise in the synthesis and characterisation of novel semiconductor materials. The position is available for a fixed term until 30 September 2028. This project is associated with an EPSRC/UKRI-funded Programme Grant entitled "Advanced Device Concepts for Next-Generation Photovoltaics." It is a collaborative project between Oxford Physics, Materials and Chemistry and Liverpool Chemistry, bringing together expertise in photovoltaic materials synthesis and device fabrication, advanced characterisation and modelling. The ambition is to carry out multidisciplinary research via inter-linked work streams that will explore and conceive four new photovoltaic device concepts and paradigms, enabling a major step-change in photovoltaic efficiency. New device 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 utilise both solution- and vapour-based materials synthesis techniques for novel semiconductor materials and doping of halide perovskites. It will also involve significant materials characterisation using techniques such as X-ray diffraction, and spectroscopic analysis using NMR and photoluminescence. The post holder will make use of the extensive materials and device fabrication and characterisation facilities in Oxford Physics and make use of the National Thin Film Cluster for Vapour Deposition of Advanced Functional Materials. The post-holder will regularly interact and collaborate with theorists working on materials and device modelling, spectroscopists, materials scientists and chemists also working on the project to ensure a continuous and productive feedback loop between materials design and device fabrication.
Responsibilities
* Utilise both solution- and vapour-based materials synthesis techniques for novel semiconductor materials and doping of halide perovskites.
* Conduct materials characterisation using X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic analyses such as NMR and photoluminescence.
* Collaborate with theorists and spectroscopists to integrate materials design with device fabrication and modelling, ensuring a continuous feedback loop.
* Engage with facilities in Oxford Physics and the National Thin Film Cluster for Vapour Deposition of Advanced Functional Materials.
* Contribute to multidisciplinary, inter-linked work streams exploring four new photovoltaic device concepts and paradigms to advance PV efficiency beyond current limits.
* Work on absorber materials based on metal-halide perovskites, silicon, and novel low-band-gap chalcogenide-halide semiconductors.
Qualifications
* PhD in physics, chemistry, materials science or engineering (or close to completion).
* Strong experience in materials synthesis and characterisation, and thin-film deposition techniques.
* Knowledge of semiconductor physics and a track record of working with next-generation materials for light-harvesting.
* Highly motivated with excellent teamwork and collaboration skills; a good record of high-quality publications.
* Ability to direct independent research, interpret results, and contribute to the project autonomously.
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