This project aims to fundamentally improve the efficiency of organic solar cells for different applications by unblocking the optical/electronic compromise, with two different approaches: the use of spectral splitting combined with multi-junction cells, pioneered by our group, and the use of mild operational temperatures for increasing charge carrier mobilities and thus the charge collection to ultimately boost fill factor (FF) and power conversion efficiency (PCE).
The underlying hypothesis of the project is that understanding and acting upon the optical/electronic compromise can be a game changer in the research of organic photovoltaics (OPV), leading to solar-cell-crafting for each envisioned application.
Several important tasks of this project involve the screening of a large number of possibilities regarding materials, geometries, spectral parameters, etc. For this, in our group, we have developed a high throughput method that enables the fast evaluation and optimization of materials, generating large amounts of date. We aim at coupling this big data to statistical tools (e.g. correlation factors) and AI models to analyze the data and obtain what are the features of importance, develop predicting models.
In this sense, the postdoctoral researcher to be hired should be able to aid us on these more advanced tasks. Moreover, we would expect this researcher to help in the programing of the light source, especially in the tasks related to dynamic variation of the spectrum while measuring the cell using minimization algorithms, such as genetic algorithms.
Main tasks of the candidate
- Fabrication and optimization of organic solar cells based on multicomponent blends
- Characterization of the stability of materials
- Optimization of ternary mixtures to improve thermal stability
- Photovoltaic measurements at mild operando temperatures
- Programing the light source to produce spectra on demand
- Advanced measurements of multi-junction solar cells
- Material screening and data analysis using statistical and artificial intelligence algorithms
Requirements
The fellow should have an internationally recognized PhD degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, Materials Science).
The ideal candidate should have a strong background in materials processing (e.g. blade coating), fabrication of organic solar cells and advanced characterization. Particularly relevant would be experience with multicomponent systems. Knowledge of advanced statistical and optimization algorithms as well as artificial intelligence algorithms will be very valuable.
About the Nanostructured Materials for Optoelectronics and Energy Harvesting Group
The Nanostructured Materials for Optoelectronics and Energy Harvesting (NANOPTO) research group focuses on producing and characterizing advanced semiconducting structures with the main objective of understanding their fundamental behavior in order to tailor and improve their functionalities and empower different applications in the areas of optoelectronics, energy harvesting, and sensing.
The team in charge of ISOSCELLES project is led by Dr. Mariano Campoy-Quiles and Prof. Alejandro R. Goñi. The focus of their research lies in the experimental development of organic and hybrid-based materials for applications in energy (photovoltaics and thermoelectrics) as well as optoelectronics (e.g. photodetectors). The group also has a strong background on advanced spectroscopic techniques as well as a broad processing toolkit and an extensive collaboration network with researchers working at the most prestigious international centers, which we intend to nurture.
We value a diverse and inclusive working environment, where all team members would have excellent opportunities for learning and contributing.
For more information, please visit the NANOPTO website.
About ICMAB
The Institute of Materials Science of Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) is a multidisciplinary research center focused on cutting-edge research in functional advanced materials in the fields of ENERGY, ELECTRONICS, NANOMEDICINE and application fields yet to imagine.
The ICMAB is integrated within the Barcelona Nanocluster in Bellaterra (BNC-b), a research network that includes the UAB, the CSIC (ICMAB, IMB-CNM and ICN2) and IRTA, part of the UAB Research Park of the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (PRUAB) and the ALBA Synchrotron. The BNC-b aims to share advanced scientific equipment and promote and disseminate nanoscience and nanotechnology.
The ICMAB offers a complete range of scientific services, including a 10,000 class cleanroom (the Nanoquim Platform) that are open to interested parties, whether these are academic or from industry, and it participates in all kinds of educational and promotional activities. Many ICMAB researchers teach at the UAB Master's degree in Nanotechnology and Materials Science as well as on the UAB degree on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology.
Details of the position
- Contract (full time) duration: two years.
- Tentative starting date: September-October 2022.
- Further information (contact person): Prof. Alejandro R. Goñi (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) and Dr. Mariano Campoy-Quiles (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
How to apply
Interested candidates should send by email to project officer Eulàlia Pujades (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) the following documents:
- Motivation letter (where you introduce yourself, previous experience in relation to the post and future goals)
- Detailed CV, including the academic record, and a list of references with contact details
Please, label your documents CV-ISOSCELLES-XXX.pdf and Letter-ISOSCELLES-XXX.pdf, replacing XXX by your surname and mention position “Post Doc ISOSCELLES” in the email title.
Closing date for application: the application process will be closed on July 21, 2022, or when a suitable candidate is found. However, in the interest of gender equality, this may be extended until the ratio between female and male applicants is reasonable.
