Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant with expertise in advanced first principles computational modeling techniques applied to next-generation semiconductors for light-harvesting applications.

The position is available for a fixed term of 30 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 utilize several state-of-the-art computational modelling techniques, including but  not limited to density functional theory (DFT) and many-body perturbation theory (MBPT) based methods, in order to address the most pressing areas of fundamental understanding which are currently lacking and need to be overcome in order for the four new device concepts detailed above to be realised and optimized, and predict photophysical properties of novel semiconductors. The theoretical and computational predictions emerging from this work will be correlated on a regular basis with parallel activities on materials synthesis, spectroscopic characterization, and device work, providing a closely-knit feedback loop enabling rapid progress. In addition, such analysis will allow for an assessment of the fundamental limitations of these four approaches, enabling decision making with regards to which strategies to best pursue.

Applicants should possess or be close to obtaining a PhD in physics, materials science, or physical chemistry. They should be highly experienced in advanced first principles computational modeling techniques, including density functional theory and many-body perturbation theory, and their application to complex heterogeneous semiconductors. Knowledge of semiconductor physics and a track record of working with next-generation novel materials for light-harvesting is 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.

Please direct any questions about this post to Marina Filip ([email protected])

Only applications received before midday 1^st September 2023 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.

More details and application portal:

https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DBP884/postdoctoral-research-assistant