PhD in Physical Chemistry with focus on perovskite solar cells for conversion of solar energy to electricity

Sort on published: 2018-12-03

Uppsala University is a comprehensive research-intensive university with a strong international standing. Our mission is to pursue top-quality research and education and to interact constructively with society. Our most important assets are all the individuals whose curiosity and dedication make Uppsala University one of Sweden’s most exciting workplaces. Uppsala University has 44.000 students, 7.100 employees and a turnover of SEK 7 billion.

The Department of Chemistry - Ångström conducts research and education in the chemistry field. The department has more than 200 employees and has a turnover of 200 million SEK. At the department's six programs, we conduct very successful research of a high international standard. We have a large number of externally funded research projects, often with international cooperation and we see continued good growth in our subject area. The department has education assignments in engineering and civil engineering programs and master's programs.

Subject description/research project: The recently developed perovskite solar cell promises very high efficiencies at very low cost. This PhD project will be focused on this new and interesting area of research.

In the project metal-halide perovskite materials will be synthesized and investigated in detail. New perovskite materials will be developed and the perovskite materials will be investigated using a wide range of methods. Perovskite solar cells are composed of a thin layer consisting of the metal-halide perovskite between two suitable contacts. Complete solar cells will be prepared and characterized using electrical-, optical- and photoelectrical methods and advanced X-ray and laser based techniques in order to understand the fundamental mechanisms for conversion of light to electricity.

The research will be performed in collaboration with several researchers and research groups in Sweden and abroad. Specifically, the collaboration involves material chemists for the design of the new materials for the solar cell, physicists for advanced spectroscopic measurements and theory experts for theoretical simulations of the new materials.

Work duties: The main duties of doctoral students are to devote themselves to their research studies which includes participating in research projects and third cycle courses. The work duties can also include teaching and other departmental duties (no more than 20%).

Admission requirements: A person meets the general admission requirements for third-cycle courses and study programmes if he or she:

• has been awarded a second-cycle qualification, or
• has satisfied the requirements for courses comprising at least 240 credits of which at least 60 credits were awarded in the second cycle, or
• has acquired substantially equivalent knowledge in some other way in Sweden or abroad.

Requirements: The applicant is expected to have a master degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Physics, or equivalent, with a physical chemistry component.

The applicant is also expected to have very good oral and written proficiency in English.

Additional requirements: Consideration will also be given to good collaborative skills, drive and independence, and how the applicant, through his or her experience and skills, is deemed to have the abilities necessary for successfully completing the third cycle programme.

Terms of employment: The rules about PhD students are found in the Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 5 §§1-7 and the University's rules and guidelines.

Application procedure: The application should include a statement of research interest, CV, certificates of exams, degrees and grades, a copy of Master thesis, published article or relevant materials, if available. Also, contact information of at least two reference persons should be included.

Uppsala University strives to be an inclusive workplace that promotes equal opportunities and attracts qualified candidates who can contribute to the University’s excellence and diversity. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from people of all backgrounds.

Pay: According to local agreement (Local collective agreement for doctoral students and students).

Starting: 2019-03-01 or as otherwise agreed.

Type of employment: Temporary position for four years

Working hours: 100 %

For further information about the position, please contact
Erik Johansson, erik.johansson@kemi.uu.se

You are welcome to submit your application no later than 2019-02-01, UFV-PA 2018/4331.

Please do not send offers of recruitment or advertising services. Applications must be submitted as described in this advertisement.