PhD in Light Management in All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells

Introduction

The Materials to Optoelectronic Devices (M2D) group (https://www.m2ngroup.nl) at the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) is looking for a motivated PhD candidate to join an exciting research project within the Dutch SolarNL / SolarLab program (https://www.solarnl.eu). The project focuses on advanced light-management strategies for high-efficiency all-perovskite tandem solar cells.

Job Description

All-perovskite tandem solar cells have recently achieved record efficiencies above 29%, demonstrating their enormous potential for next-generation photovoltaic technologies. Despite this rapid progress, optical losses still limit device performance. Reflection losses, parasitic absorption, and incomplete spectral splitting reduce the efficient use of sunlight in tandem architectures.
In this PhD project, you will develop innovative light-management concepts to minimize these optical losses and improve the efficiency of all-perovskite tandem solar cells. The work combines nanophotonic design, optical modelling, materials processing, and device fabrication.
The project is embedded in the national SolarNL initiative and includes collaborations with leading Dutch research institutes and industrial partners, including AMOLF and TNO. 

You will investigate:

• Photonic and light-management structures for enhanced absorption in tandem solar cells
• Material growth strategies to reduce parasitic optical losses in e.g. transparent conducting oxides.
• Advanced spectral management concepts for improved current matching
• Optical simulations and modelling of multilayer photovoltaic devices
• Fabrication and characterization of optical coatings and perovskite tandem devices

Job Requirements

• Motivated and passionate researcher, with a master’s degree (or an equivalent university degree) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, (Applied) Physics, or Materials Science.
• Ability to conduct high quality academic research, reflected in demonstratable outputs. 
• A team player who enjoys supervising Bachelor and MSc. students. 
• Excellent (written and verbal) proficiency in English, good communication skills.
• Interest in photovoltaics, optoelectronics, nanophotonics, or semiconductor materials
• Experience with experimental research is appreciated.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment (the M2D group is part of two departments, Applied Physics and Chemical Engineering and Chemistry).

Conditions of Employment

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you: 

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. You will spend a minimum of 10% of your four-year employment on teaching tasks, with a maximum of 15% per year of your employment. 
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. € 3,059 - max. € 3,881 gross per month).  
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%. 
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process. 
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.  
• Unlimited access to the modern on‑campus TU/e Student Sports Center at an exceptionally affordable rate.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs. 
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates. 

On our website you can discover even more information about our conditions of employment. Build on your career at TU/e!

About us

We are a leading international university where scientific curiosity meets a hands-on mindset. We work in an open and collaborative way with high-tech industries to tackle complex societal challenges. Our responsible and respectful approach ensures impact — today and in the future. TU/e is home to over 13,000 students and more than 7,000 staff, forming a diverse and vibrant academic community.

Our university is located in Brainport Eindhoven — a world‑leading tech region with more than 7,000 high‑tech companies and strong R&D activity. Known for breakthroughs in AI, photonics, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, Brainport is a place where technology serves people and society. Learn more about the Brainport region here.

The Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry bridges science and engineering to create sustainable solutions for society. By combining expertise in molecules, materials, and processes, we drive innovations that address global challenges in energy, circularity, health and future technology. Through world-class research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and strong industry partnerships, we educate engineers and scientists who turn scientific discoveries into technologies with lasting societal impact. Together, we create chemistry for a better world.

Information

Do you recognize yourself in this profile and would you like to know more? Please contact the hiring manager(s): Prof. dr. Monica Morales Masis [email protected]; Prof. Rene Janssen [email protected].

Visit our website for more information about the application process.

Curious to hear more about what it’s like as a PhD candidate at TU/e? Please view the video.

Are you inspired and would like to know more about working at TU/e? Please visit our career page.

Application

We invite you to submit a complete application by using the apply button. The application should include a:

• Cover letter in which you describe your motivation and qualifications for the position.
• Curriculum vitae, including a list of your publications and the contact information of three references. Kindly note that we may reach out to references at any stage of the recruitment process. We recommend notifying your references upon submitting your application.

Ensure that you submit all the requested application documents. We give priority to complete applications.

We look forward to receiving your application and will screen it as soon as possible. The vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.

Please note

• You can apply online. We will not process applications sent by email and/or post. 
• A pre-employment screening (e.g. knowledge security check) can be part of the selection procedure. For more information on the knowledge security check, please consult the National Knowledge Security Guidelines.
• Please do not contact us for unsolicited services.