Master thesis: Pressure-dependent band-bowing in tin-lead perovskites

Work Activities

Lead-tin perovskites enable wide bandgap-tunability for all- perovskite tandem solar cells. Whereas the lattice parameter of tin-lead perovskites varies linearly between the pure Sn and Pb end members, the band gap evolves nonlinearly, exhibiting pronounced bowing. The origin of this band- bowing effect is still unknown. In this project, you will study how pressure affects the band-bowing. Applying pressure alters bond lengths and octahedral tilts, therefore changing the orbital overlap that determines the band gap. Pressure thus provides a way to probe how structural effects contribute to band-bowing. You will learn how to synthesize perovskites using spin coating, perform structural characterization using X-ray diffraction and stability testing, and carry out pressure- dependent band-gap measurements.

Qualifications

You are currently enrolled in a Master’s program in physics, chemistry, materials science, or a related field. You have a nationality of an EU-member state and/or you are a student at a university in the Netherlands. The internship has to be a mandatory part of your curriculum. We expect you to be available for at least 5 months, although longer is preferable.

Work environment

AMOLF is a part of NWO-I and initiate and performs leading fundamental research on the physics of complex forms of matter, and to create new functional materials, in partnership with academia and industry. The institute is located at Amsterdam Science Park and currently employs about 140 researchers and 80 support employees. amolf.nl

The Hybrid Solar Cell Group researches the next generation of solar cells using hybrid materials like metal halide perovskites. We develop a deep understanding of material properties and their impact on device performance.

Our focus is on improving the stability of perovskite solar cells, addressing ion migration as a key challenge. We have developed unique techniques to study and suppress ion migration and explore new applications for ion migration. By combining the excellent semiconducting properties of perovskites with mobile ions, we develop devices for memory applications.

Working conditions

At the start of the traineeship your trainee plan will be set out, in consultation with your AMOLF supervisor.

AMOLF Energy Research Academy: AMOLF offers a special program for research internships in sustainable energy science. It is composed of a research project in one of AMOLF’s research groups, combined with a series of dedicated tutorials on fundamental aspects of the science behind sustainability technology. Admission to this Academy is only possible in combination with a research internship project at AMOLF.

More information?

For further information about the position, please contact prof. dr. Bruno Ehrler or dr. Tom Veeken

Application

You can respond to this vacancy online via the button below. Please annex your:

• Motivation letter;
• Resume;
• List of followed courses plus grades.

Online screening may be part of the selection.

Diversity code

AMOLF is highly committed to an inclusive and diverse work environment: we want to develop talent and creativity by bringing together people from different backgrounds and cultures. We recruit and select on the basis of competencies and talents. We strongly encourage anyone with the right qualifications to apply for the vacancy, regardless of age, gender, origin, sexual orientation or physical ability.

AMOLF has won the NNV Diversity Award 2022, which is awarded every two years by the Netherlands Physical Society for demonstrating the most successful implementation of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI).

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