PhD in Advanced Luminescent Solar Concentrator Photovoltaics

This PhD position at Eindhoven University of Technology offers an exciting opportunity to advance the field of luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) photovoltaics, focusing on devices with stimulated emission (SE-LSC) to significantly enhance efficiency and design flexibility. The project aims to optimize SE-LSC PV devices using seed lasers, enabling higher irradiance and potentially surpassing 20% efficiency. Research activities will include theoretical modeling of optical, electrical, and thermal properties, as well as experimental characterization of luminescent materials, device components, and outdoor spectra. The successful candidate will join the Energy Technology and Fluid Dynamics Group (Department of Mechanical Engineering) and the Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices Group (Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry) at TU/e. The project is interdisciplinary, with Utrecht University providing outdoor test facilities and the 4TU Heritage program (involving University of Twente, WUR, and TU Delft) offering context and monitoring for built environment applications. The research is highly relevant to the sustainable energy transition and aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Objectives include understanding SE-LSC functioning under laser processes and outdoor irradiance, simulating device configurations, demonstrating SE-LSC PV devices in laboratory and outdoor settings, and cataloging suitable luminescent species. The project promises new PV technology with customizable properties—color, transparency, low cost, and form-giving—essential for integration into buildings, vehicles, and other products. Applicants must have a master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or Sustainable Energy Technology, a research-oriented attitude, interest in design-driven solar energy applications, interdisciplinary teamwork skills, motivation to develop teaching abilities, and fluency in English (C1 level). Collaboration with industrial partners and participation in teaching tasks are expected. The position offers full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate assessment after nine months. Salary is in scale P (€3,059–€3,881/month), with a year-end bonus (8.3%), annual vacation pay (8%), pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave, commuting and home working allowances, and a tax compensation scheme (30% facility) for international candidates. TU/e provides high-quality training, technical infrastructure, on-campus childcare, sports facilities, and support for international staff. Applications must be submitted online via the provided link, including a cover letter, CV with publications, and contact information for three references. Only complete applications will be considered. The vacancy remains open until filled, with a deadline of April 2, 2026. For further information, contact Professor Angèle Reinders ([email protected]) or [email protected].