Job description:
Solar cells are arguably the best answer to the global energy problem. The improved control of surfaces and interfaces of solar cells can lead to higher power output, a topic of widespread academic and industrial interest. In this project we will study the benefit of newly developed thin-film techniques, originally designed for integrated-circuit manufacturing, in photovoltaic cell production. The emphasis will be on surface treatments with radicals during the fabrication, aiming towards a lower carrier recombination in solar cells and a lower contact resistance in solar cell metallization. The PhD student will advance the art of solar cell manufacturing through:
- Manufacturing samples using standard and experimental equipment in Nanolab Twente;
- Characterizing these samples physically in-situ and ex-situ;
- Testing samples and cells for electrical and photovoltaic action;
- Modeling the performance of the cells;
- Verifying the merits of the new technologies by an evaluation in a real solar cell production process, in close collaboration with manufacturing companies.
The project is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs via the ADEM program (see http://www.adem-innovationlab.nl/). The research will be carried out at the University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands. The PhD student will be under guidance of Dr. Alexey Kovalgin and Prof. Dr. Jurriaan Schmitz of the University of Twente. The research program is carried out in the broader framework of ADEM, which means involvement of many academic and industrial parties in The Netherlands and many possibilities for cooperation.
The project will be carried out in the group of Semiconductor Components (SC http://www.utwente.nl/ewi/sc/) at the University of Twente, embedded in the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science and in the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology (www.mesaplus.utwente.nl). MESA+ is one of the largest nanotechnology research institutes in the world, delivering competitive and successful high-quality research. It combines the disciplines of physics, electrical engineering, chemistry, materials science and mathematics.
Requirements:
We are looking for a highly motivated and enthusiastic researcher (M/F) with a M.Sc. degree in electrical engineering, nanotechnology, applied physics or a related topic, with excellent experimental and theoretical skills. We seek candidates with good team spirit, who like to work in an internationally oriented environment. Fluency in English is a requirement. An interview will be part of the selection procedure.
Applications
Applications should include an application/motivation letter, emphasizing your specific interest, qualifications and motivation to apply for this position, a detailed CV (resume), a publication list, contact details of at least 2 referees, and an academic transcript of B.Sc. and M.Sc. education. A TOEFL or IELTS score is generally requested to verify sufficient mastering of the English language.
You can electronically apply for this position through http://www.utwente.nl/vacatures before March 31st, 2014. For more information please contact the secretary of Semiconductor Components Group Mrs. Remke Assink at R.Assink@utwente.nl.
Organization:
We offer an interesting temporary research position in a dynamic and international environment, with the benefits of academic research and the possibility to work on one of the grand challenges of this time. A training program is a part of the agreement. You and your supervisors will make up a plan for the additional education and supervising that you specifically need. This plan also defines your teaching activities (up to a maximum of 20% of your time).
The University of Twente offers excellent working conditions, an exciting scientific environment, and a green and lively campus. We offer
- A PhD position for four years (38 hrs/week).
- Full status as an employee at the University of Twente, including pension and health care benefits.
- Gross salary PhD student: ranging from EUR 2083 (1st year) to EUR 2664 (4th year) per month, plus holiday allowance (8%) and end-of-year bonus (8.3%).
- Excellent facilities for professional and personal development.
- Good secondary conditions, in accordance with the collective labour agreement CAO-NU for Dutch universities.
- A green campus with lots of sports facilities
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