Post-doc position in the field of thin-film CIGS solar cells

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

The

is known for its innovative research in the field of inorganic and organic-inorganic hybrid thin film photovoltaic and battery technologies. The Laboratory holds the world record for energy conversion efficiency of CIGS solar cells on flexible substrates, and is one of the leading centers for CIGS/perovskite tandem devices.

We are looking for a postdoc motivated to develop of thin-film solar cells based on the CIGS technology. As part of a Horizon Europe collaborative project, the researcher is responsible for the fabrication and characterization of high performance solar cells with bifaciality or back reflectors, and explore possibilities for alternative passivation contacts layers. The researcher will validate the developments with demonstration of interconnection and mini-modules devices. Upon mutual interest the responsibilities will be extended to the exploration of new materials, processing methods and device applications.

• Plan and conduct experiments on thin film CIGS solar cells and modules
• Devices fabrication (thermal/e-beam evaporation, chemical bath deposition, sputtering, atomic layer deposition)
• Characterization of material, layers and devices by electrical, optical and material analysis methods, interpretation of results
• Work in collaboration with industrial and academic partners from Europe
• Publish high-quality scientific publications
• Supervision of undergraduate and PhD students
• Contribution to proposal writing

• PhD degree in Material science, Physics, Chemistry, Electrical engineering or similar
• Strong hands-on experience with in semiconductor materials, advanced semiconductor characterization and/or interface passivation approaches
• You are a team player and your strengths include taking personal responsibility, high motivation for innovation, excellence and flexibility to work and deliver results
• Proficiency in English

We offer an international, highly stimulating research environment with excellent infrastructure and broad interdisciplinary surroundings with plenty of possibilities for personal and professional development at Empa in Dübendorf (near Zürich). You will work on important and promising solutions to the global energy problem in an international environment. 

The initial contract is for one year and can be extended up to three years. The starting date is in spring 2025 or upon mutual agreement.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

CristinaMarinoni, Bereichspersonalleiterin / HR Partner