Senior Research Fellow (Upscaling Tandem Cells) II

Job Description

The Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) is Singapore’s national institute for applied solar energy research. SERIS has the stature of a National University of Singapore (NUS) university - level Research Institute. SERIS conducts industry - oriented research and development as well as use - inspired basic research in the field of solar energy conversion. The institute collaborates closely with the industry across the solar photovoltaics value chain.

The Next-Generation Industrial Solar Cell & Module cluster focuses on the research and development of cost-effective high efficiency (>25%) solar cells with an emphasis on innovations for high-volume manufacturing. The cluster works in close collaboration with industrial partners via formal collaboration agreements and industry-aligned public-funded projects. This role is for the R&D Manager of an industry-aligned project aiming to upscale and commercialize inventions for large-area (>244 cm2) silicon/perovskite tandem solar cells. This project involves commissioning and conducting upscaling research on a pilot line for 2T (2-terminal) perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells on large-area wafer substrates. Work packages in the project involve establishing fast deposition methods for perovskite semiconductors and contact layers aimed at demonstrating large-area (>244 cm2) tandem cell with >30% efficiency using high-TRL (technology readiness level), industry-ready methods. This project is also aimed at developing unique IP (intellectual property) and licensing / commercializing the technology to industrial partners.

In this job scope, we seek a highly motivated senior researcher with experience in 2T tandem technologies and an exceptional knowledge in perovskite/silicon solar cells fabrication and tandem integration.

Extended Job Scope:

•    Fabrication of large-area (towards G12) and high efficiency (towards 30%) 2T perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells.
•    Research focusing on the following:
o    Conceptualization, design, development and fabrication of low-cost and scalable methods for very high-efficiency solar cells with a specific focus on IP development and commercialisation. 
o    Drive analysis and characterisation for complex industrial processes especially at an early stage of the commercialisation.   
o    Assist in developing novel processes and improving existing processes
•    Develop a clear roadmap and strategy for R&D, equipment and IP. Lead discussions and contribute to the design and development of new pilot-scale equipment and processes. 
•    Lead and oversee a 12-member team of researchers and engineers to achieve the project’s KPIs (key performance indicators).
•    Lead the development of IP relevant to the project and to the industry partners.
•    Take ownership of R&D reporting (internal and external)
•    Liaise and manage relationships with grant agencies, industry partners, vendors, and other stake-holders

Qualifications

Essential Requirements:

•    PhD Degree in Materials Sciences, Physics, Chemistry or relevant engineering topics
•    Must have experience in perovskite solar cell fabrication and characterization, or other relevant experience.
•    Specific experience with development of large-area 2T silicon/perovskite tandem solar cells will be highly preferred.
•    Required to work in semiconductor clean room and characterisation lab.
•    Expertise in relevant software for: DOE, data analysis, AutoCAD, grid design, layer/solar cell modelling. 
•    Programming experience is a plus (e.g. Python, R, SQL, etc)
•    Excellent organizational and time-management skills; excellent communication skills, including the capacity to offer thoughtful and clear technical guidance on research projects
•    Must be target/KPI-driven and well organized
•    Regular, reliable and predictable attendance and reporting required. 
•    Must be able to independently plan, initiate/execute and report on research activities. Project management experience is a plus.
•    Effective communication of ideas, results and issues with the project team, institute management, and other stakeholders is crucial.

Covid-19 Message

At NUS, the health and safety of our staff and students are one of our utmost priorities, and COVID-vaccination supports our commitment to ensure the safety of our community and to make NUS as safe and welcoming as possible. Many of our roles require a significant amount of physical interactions with students/staff/public members. Even for job roles that may be performed remotely, there will be instances where on-campus presence is required.

Taking into consideration the health and well-being of our staff and students and to better protect everyone in the campus, applicants are strongly encouraged to have themselves fully COVID-19 vaccinated to secure successful employment with NUS.

More Information

Location: Kent Ridge Campus

Organization: Solar Energy Research Inst of S'pore

Department : Engineering & Research

Employee Referral Eligible: No