Postdoctoral position in synthesis and characterization of lead-free halide perovskite nanomaterials for solar energy applications

Description of the workplace

This position will be part of the group of Light-Activated Energy Materials (LAEM) that is led by Dr Maning Liu at the Centre for Analysis and Synthesis (CAS), Department of Chemistry. We are a highly international unit and strive to maintain gender balance. Research at CAS that has more than 120 staff, focuses on inorganic, organic, polymer and functional materials synthesis, as well as advanced analysis and characterization techniques, with applications across such topics as photovoltaics, energy conversion/storage and catalysis.

The postdoctoral project will also be part of the WISE Fellowship program (Wallenberg Initiative Material Science for Sustainability), funded by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg foundation (https://wise-materials.org/), which will include collaboration with partners within the WISE network.

Subject description

The focus of the research will be on the synthesis and characterization of novel lead-free halide perovskite or perovskite-inspired nanomaterials through diverse electron microscopy and spectroscopy methods, which significant hints contribute to the rational design of high-performance optoelectronics. Metal halide perovskites have been recognized as the most promising candidate for a wide range of potential uses in solar energy applications such as solar cells and photocatalysis. To be able to meet the rising challenges in eco-friendly and sustainable production of materials for these applications, novel lead-free halide perovskites or so-called perovskite-inspired materials must be explored. For this reason, we are aiming to develop synthesis and deepen understanding of lead-free perovskite nanomaterials with potential for the fabrication of efficient and stable devices.

Work duties

The main duties involved in a post-doctoral position is to conduct research. Teaching may also be included, but up to no more than 20% of working hours. The position includes the opportunity for three weeks of training in higher education teaching and learning. The purpose of the position is to develop the independence as a researcher and to create the opportunity of further development.

You will be responsible for designing, planning and carrying out experiments independently, including the development of project ideas. Several additional working duties may be required:

• Teaching in the first, second and third cycles of studies
• Supervision of degree projects and doctoral students
• Actively seeking external research funding
• Collaboration with industry and wider society
• Administration related to the work duties listed above

Qualification requirements

Appointment to a post-doctoral position requires that the applicant has a PhD, or an international degree deemed equivalent to a PhD, within the subject of the position. The certificate proving the qualification requirement is met, must be received before the employment decision is made. Priority will be given to candidates who have graduated no more than three years ago before the last day for application. Under special circumstances, the doctoral degree can have been completed earlier.

Additional requirements:

• Very good oral and written proficiency in English.
• Doctoral degree within engineering, chemistry, materials science, or a related subject.
• Well versed in handling either electron microscopy or spectroscopy of semiconductor functional materials.
• Advanced theoretical knowledge of semiconductor nanocrystal nucleation/growth.
• Good problem-solving and linguistic analytical abilities.

Assessment criteria

This is a career development position primarily focused on research. The position is intended as an initial step in a career, and the assessment of the applicants will primarily be based on their research qualifications and potential as researchers. Particular emphasis will be placed on research skills within the subject.

For appointments to a post-doctoral position, the following shall form the assessment criteria:

• A good ability to develop and conduct high quality research.
• Teaching skills.

Other qualifications:

Experience in any of the following will be counted as a merit:

• synthesis of size-controllable semiconductor nanocrystals
• experience in utilisation of semiconductor nanocrystals in light-converting (e.g., photocatalytic and solar cells) applications
• Structural and morphological studies via advanced electron microscopy techniques such as transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM)
• We are looking for a person who is structured, goal-oriented and has good self-awareness.

Consideration will also be given to how the applicant’s experience and skills complement and strengthen ongoing research within the department, and how they stand to contribute to its future development.

We offer

Lund University is a public authority which means that employees get particular benefits, generous annual leave and an advantageous occupational pension scheme. Read more on the University website about being a Lund University employee Work at Lund University. https://www.lunduniversity.lu.se/about-university/work-lund-university

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term employment of two years. The period of employment is determined in accordance with the agreement “Avtal om tidsbegränsad anställning som postdoktor” (“Agreement on fixed-term employment as a post-doctoral fellow”).

How to apply

Applications shall be written in English. Please draw up the application in accordance with LTH’s Academic qualifications portfolio – see link below. Upload the application as PDF-files in the recruitment system (including your PhD certificate). Read more: To apply for academic positions at LTH. http://www.lth.se/english/working-at-lth/to-apply-for-academic-positions-at-lth/

Welcome to apply!