Research Associate – Perovskite Solar Cell Optimisation

Location: Sheffield, UK (Hybrid)
Job Type: Full-Time | Fixed-Term Contract
Salary: £38,249 – £46,735 per year

We are seeking a Research Associate with expertise in perovskite solar cells, materials science, and renewable energy research to contribute to an innovative next-generation solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing project. This role involves developing advanced charge extraction materials, fabricating and optimizing solar cells, conducting laboratory experiments, and collaborating with academic and industry partners to advance clean energy technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize perovskite solar cell technologies
• Fabricate and characterize photovoltaic (PV) devices
• Perform thin-film deposition using spin coating, slot-die coating, spray coating, and thermal evaporation techniques
• Develop self-assembled molecular layers (SAMs) for charge extraction
• Conduct microscopy, spectroscopy, and material characterization
• Analyze device efficiency, stability, and performance metrics
• Manage experimental data and prepare technical reports
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams and industry partners
• Present research findings and contribute to scientific publications
• Support technology transfer and manufacturing readiness initiatives
• Contribute to renewable energy innovation and sustainable technology development

Requirements

• PhD or equivalent experience in Physics, Electronic Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, Renewable Energy, or a related discipline
• Experience in perovskite solar cell research and photovoltaic technologies
• Strong laboratory research and experimental skills
• Knowledge of thin-film fabrication and characterization techniques
• Experience with microscopy and spectroscopy methods
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with academic and industrial partners

Technical Skills & Keywords

• Perovskite Solar Cells
• Photovoltaics (PV)
• Renewable Energy
• Solar Energy
• Materials Science
• Electronic Engineering
• Thin Film Deposition
• Spin Coating
• Slot-Die Coating
• Spray Coating
• Thermal Evaporation
• Self-Assembled Monolayers (SAMs)
• Charge Extraction Materials
• Device Fabrication
• Semiconductor Materials
• Solar Cell Optimisation
• Microscopy
• Spectroscopy
• Material Characterisation
• Nanotechnology
• Clean Energy
• Sustainable Energy
• Laboratory Research
• Experimental Physics
• Scientific Research
• Data Analysis
• Research Publications
• Technology Development

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Hybrid working arrangement
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge renewable energy research
• Collaboration with academic and industry partners
• Professional development opportunities
• Research publication and conference opportunities
• Innovative and collaborative research environment

Ideal Candidate

• Passionate about renewable energy and solar technologies
• Strong experimental and analytical skills
• Detail-oriented and highly organized
• Excellent scientific communication abilities
• Collaborative and innovative mindset
• Motivated to contribute to next-generation sustainable energy solutions

This role is ideal for professionals pursuing careers in Renewable Energy, Photovoltaics, Materials Science, Electronic Engineering, Solar Energy Research, Semiconductor Research, Clean Energy Technologies, or Academic Research.