Eco-friendly & high performing organic photovoltaics

Developing renewable energy solutions that can be rapidly implemented in the market using eco-friendly materials and manufacturing methods is crucial. Among various renewable technologies, photovoltaics have significant potential to support climate change mitigation. Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) have recently attracted considerable attention due to a new family of semiconductors that enable highly efficient light harvesting in both indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, OPVs offer a low carbon footprint and high recyclability potential.

However, a current limitation is the use of toxic solvents and materials in manufacturing. Most organic electronic devices require halogenated and non-halogenated aromatic solvents, which are often carcinogenic or toxic to human reproductive systems and harm the environment. For large-scale production and commercialization, this is a critical issue.

This project aims to enhance the performance of OPVs through engineering strategies, eliminate the use of toxic materials and implement methods to enhance their stability. In addition, thin films and OPVs will be evaluated with a series of optoelectronic and morphological characterisation tools.

The PhD candidate will be supervised by Dr Julianna Panidi (School of Engineering) and Dr Yue Hu (School of Chemistry).

The successful candidates will join our team, which includes researchers from the Institute for Integrated Micro and Nano Systems, the School of Chemistry, and the wider College of Science and Engineering.

Eligibility

• a 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent).
• applicant's must meet the University’s English language requirements.

Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor for this project before you apply.

https://eng.ed.ac.uk/sustainable-printable-electronics-research-group

Applications are welcomed from self-funded students, or students who are applying for scholarships from the University of Edinburgh or elsewhere.

Funding may be available to Home students on a competitive basis. Candidates are invited to discuss potential funding opportunities.

Further information and other funding options.