The Photovoltaic Cells and Arrays (PVCA) project at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) anticipates a need for a PhD graduate for a postdoc position. The purpose of the PVCA project is to develop and improve the measurement science needed to (1) accurately characterize the electrical and optical performance of solar photovoltaic cells, and (2) explore the efficiency of new generations of PV technologies under a variety of lighting conditions, from air mass 0 applications to ambient light energy harvesting. The PV Characterization Lab at NIST contains a variety of novel and advanced characterization tools with measurement traceability to fundamental SI units that can be used and expanded to advance the research. 

The postdoctoral researcher will conduct a variety of hands-on measurements aimed at investigating electrical, optical, and opto-electronic properties of various solar cells. In recent times, our efforts have been focused on III-V solar cells; however, other materials may also be investigated depending on time and interest. The objective of the project is to identify, study, and correlate PV loss mechanisms such as radiative and non-radiative recombination effects with overall device performance under illumination conditions ranging from indoor low light to concentrated lighting conditions. The candidate will combine techniques such as hyperspectral electroluminescence (EL) and photoluminescence (PL) imaging with detailed electrical characterization to elucidate a complete picture of charge transport phenomena in these devices. 

This position requires expertise with photovoltaic characterization techniques such as dc I-V curve measurements, external quantum efficiency, lock-in based measurements, time resolved PL, and good analysis, computation, and modeling skills using programming tools such as MATHEMATICA or MATLAB. Furthermore, the preferred candidate will have some familiarity with optical imaging methods such as EL and PL. We prefer candidates that are highly adaptable to learning new methods and skills and be willing to step outside their comfort zone. The post doc will work closely with the project leader and will be encouraged to reach out to other parties across NIST for cross-lab collaboration. We would like to find someone who can start by summer of 2022. 

If you or someone you know is interested in this exciting opportunity, or if you would like further information, please contact Dr. Behrang Hamadani (bh@nist.gov, 301-975-5548).

The Department of Commerce is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The position would be located at the NIST campus in Gaithersburg, MD, USA. If, and when a federal position is available, a vacancy announcement will be posted on WWW.USAJOBS.GOV.  At this time, however, NIST is considering a number of mechanisms through which post-docs could be brought to the lab (e.g., guest researchers).  

Possible series under which this potential position would fall include, but are not limited to, 0850 (Electrical Engineer) or 1310 (Physicist).  

Salary range would be that of the ZP III, Interval 1 pay range ($74,950 to $93,545 per year).