Research Associate in Perovskite Solar Cell Optimisation

Overview

We seek a Physicist / Physical Chemist / Materials Scientist with expertise in the fabrication and optimisation of perovskite solar cells. This industry‑led project involves collaboration with Power Roll Ltd and DYENAMO. The objective is to develop new self‑assembled molecular (SAM) materials that efficiently extract hole‑carriers from perovskite solar cells for use in conventional planar devices or V‑groove back‑contact architectures. Techniques such as slot‑die deposition, thermal evaporation, spin‑coating and spray‑coating will be employed.

The results will support Power Roll’s solar‑cell development programme.

Based in Professor David Lidzey’s laboratory, the role involves working with researchers at Power Roll and DYENAMO to explore how different SAM materials affect solar‑cell efficiency and stability, and how deposition techniques influence performance. The position requires fabricating thin films, characterising them with spectroscopy and microscopy, and building devices to assess efficiency and operational stability. Transfer of knowledge to Power Roll is also expected.

• Design, develop and refine experiments to obtain reliable data.
• Carry out experimental research, including the use of chemicals and solvents in clean‑rooms.
• Perform basic spectroscopy and microscopy on thin perovskite and organic films.
• Fabricate solar cells and characterise their efficiency and stability.
• Analyse and record data to inform future research and produce useful findings for project partners.
• Prepare papers for journals and presentations, and present at national/international conferences or seminars.
• Write progress reports and present work at project meetings in the UK and Sweden.
• Read academic papers, journals and textbooks; attend conferences to stay abreast of developments.
• Plan and manage aspects of research programmes, including deadlines and milestones.
• Design individual experiments weekly and plan up to three months ahead, accounting for resources and project goals.
• Collaborate with other team members, sharing data and expertise to achieve project objectives.
• Supervise research team activities if required.
• Monitor and adjust results, adapting to new developments in research.
• Prepare for journal publications and conference presentations, planning several months in advance.
• Make ethical decisions and embed the University sustainability strategy into work activities.
• Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Our diverse community values unique abilities, backgrounds and beliefs. Even if your experience does not match perfectly, your contribution is valuable and you are encouraged to apply.

Essential criteria:

• A PhD or equivalent experience in physical science or engineering.
• Experience in the development and optimisation of perovskite solar cells.
• Experience in depositing thin organic films using solution and thermal evaporation techniques.
• Experience in testing and characterising solar‑cell devices.
• Experience in using and maintaining a glovebox.
• Effective communication skills, including paper writing and oral presentations at scientific meetings.
• Ability to communicate ideas effectively to other researchers.
• Ability to work effectively within a team.
• Ability to develop creative approaches to problem‑solving.
• Ability to analyse and solve problems.

• Experience in fabricating thin films using roll‑to‑roll / slot‑die / spray‑coating.
• Experience in perovskite precursor solvent formulation.

• Minimum of 41 days annual leave including bank holidays and closure days (pro‑rata) with option to purchase additional days.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid arrangements.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Wide range of retail discounts and rewards.
• Staff networks (Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s, Parent’s) for social interaction, peer support and development.
• Recognition awards for staff performance.
• Commitment to development through learning and mentoring schemes.
• Family‑friendly policies: paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies, support for menopause, fertility treatment, and more.

Salary: £38,249 to £46,735 per annum.

Work arrangement:
Full‑time.

Duration: 15 months.

Line manager:
Prof D G Lidzey.

Our university is a Disability Confident Employer. Eligible candidates with a disability who meet the essential criteria will be invited to the next stage of the selection process.