Project Assistant Research in Physics

Karlstad University / Department of Engineering and Physics

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Background

The Department of Engineering Science and Physics at the Faculty of Health, Science and Technology is looking for a project assistant research in physics, to participate in two European research projects on perovskite solar cells. The department has a strong research profile in the field of materials for solar energy applications. The current research group, where the project assistant will be active, focuses on molecular and new materials for photovoltaics and has a broad international network of collaborations. The research laboratories are well equipped with modern facilities for the production and testing of solar cells and instruments for structural, optical and surface characterization of materials. In addition, the research team also uses X-ray spectroscopy methods at synchrotron laboratories.

Duties

The main duties are to participate in two externally funded European research projects, "Dry production routes for large-area benign metal halide perovskite solar cells" (PERDRY) and "In-situ laser fabrication of graphene electrodes and interlayers for the next generation CIGS / Perovskite solar cells "(LASERGRAPH). The projects in question are funded by the Swedish Energy Agency under the SOLAR-ERA-NET program and by Vinnova within the Flag-ERA program, associated with the EU flagship Graphene. The work involves planning and conducting experiments as well as communicating results and participating in project meetings with the other national and international project partners.

More specifically, the experimental work involves solution-based fabrication of materials for perovskite solar cells, as well as measurements of properties of photovoltaic materials and photovoltaic cells. Measurement methods that are of specific importance are UV and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Kelvin probe, Scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Collaboration with project partners through the exchange of tests and results, discussions and meetings is an important part of the tasks. Participation in the writing of publications and conference contributions is also included in the tasks.

Qualifications

We are looking for an experimental physicist with experience in perovskite solar cells research. The applicant must have a degree at advanced level in physics or physics engineering, or equivalent. A doctoral degree is a strong merit. The applicant shall have documented knowledge and skills in methods for the production of perovskite materials, as well as for the measurement of properties of solar cell materials. Measurement methods that are of particular interest are photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Excellent knowledge of English, in speech and writing, is also a requirement. Experience in the production and electrical testing of solar cells is a merit. We attach great importance to the applicant's personal qualities, such as good collaborative ability, ability to work independently, good organizational ability, accuracy, and excellent communication skills. A positive attitude towards colleagues is a prerequisite.

Terms

The position is a fixed-term, full time position for 12 months. The starting date for the position is 1 August 2020 or by agreement.

Application

The application should include well documented qualifications. Applicants are responsible for submitting a complete application in accordance with the advertisement and for ensuring that the documentation allows for objective and qualitative assessments. A complete application should be submitted no later than the application deadline.

The application should include:

• Cover letter briefly describing the applicant’s qualifications in relation to the duties of the position

• CV

• Copies of relevant employer’s certificates, degree certificates, grades, and letters of recommendation

• Information on language skills

• Contact information to at least two references

• Other documents that the applicant wishes to refer to

Submit your application via the University’s web-based recruitment tool.

Application deadline: 25 June, 2020
Reference number: REK2020/151

We look forward to your application!

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