Postdoctoral Research Associates at The Africa Center of Excellence in Future Energies & Electrochemical Systems (ACE-FUELS)

Position Overview

We are recruiting two exceptional, self-driven Postdoctoral Research Associates to lead experimental and process development activities in the areas of printed perovskite solar cell fabrication, module scale-up, and device performance optimization. Successful candidates will work within a multidisciplinary team to deliver high-impact research aligned with the project’s milestones in:

• Advanced Materials Development: Optimizing perovskite formulations and charge transport layers for printed modules
• Process Engineering: Scaling up screen-printing/slot-die coating techniques for large-area PSCs

Key Responsibilities

Research and Development

• Design and execute experimental protocols for fabrication of printed perovskite solar cells and modules
• Investigate stability, efficiency, and scalability of perovskite layers under varying processing conditions
• Explore novel device architectures, encapsulation strategies, and green solvent systems

Laboratory Leadership

• Analyze performance metrics (IV, EQE, XRD, SEM, UV-Vis, etc.)
• Publish high-impact research and present at scientific conferences and contribute to patent applications
• Prepare technical reports and contributions to project deliverables
• Publish high-impact research and contribute to patent applications

Data Analysis and Dissemination

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Electrical Engineering (awarded within last 5 years)
• Maintain detailed records of fabrication processes and outcomes

Essential Qualifications

• PhD in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, or Electrical Engineering (awarded within last 5 years)
• Expertise in:
  • Perovskite solar cell fabrication and characterization.
  • Experience with thin-film processing techniques (e.g., spin-coating, slot-die coating, screen printing)
  • Advanced data analysis (Python/Matlab for device physics modelling preferred)

• Proficiency with materials/device characterization tools (e.g., XRD, SEM, AFM, UV-Vis, IV testing)
• Familiarity with computational materials modelling and simulation tools
• Demonstrated ability to manage independent research and work in a collaborative environment

• Proven publication record in reputable journals (minimum 5 first-author papers in Q1 journals)

Strong documentation, data analysis, and scientific writing skills

Desirable Skills

• Prior experience with perovskite solar cells or other thin-film PV technologies
• Familiarity with scale-up processes, industrial module fabrication, or life-cycle analysis
• Experience with sheet-to-sheet/roll-to-roll/industrial printing methods
• Knowledge of encapsulation techniques for device stability
• Proven success in competitive funding applications
• Experience supervising students or junior staff
• Knowledge of cleanroom protocols and lab safety standards