Photovoltaics (to generate electricity from sunlight) is projected to become the single largest energy source before 2040, according to International Energy Agency, the world’s leading energy authority. Silicon-based solar panels currently account for 95% of the photovoltaic market. A key challenge for the clean energy transition is to further improve the performance and reduce the cost of photovoltaic devices (i.e. solar cells).

The electronic quality of the silicon materials critically determines the solar cell performance. This project focuses on understanding the silicon materials used for solar cells through characterising the material and defect properties. The project will be largely experimental.

If interested, please contact Dr AnYao Liu (anyao.liu@anu.edu.au) and provide your transcript and CV.