Doctoral student in Accelerated solar cell materials exploration
Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, Sweden, invites applications for a fully funded doctoral student position in Accelerated solar cell materials exploration. This multidisciplinary opportunity is based in the Department of Industrial and Materials Science, specifically within the Division of Computational Mechanics and Materials Engineering, which is renowned for its inclusive and innovative research environment. The project aims to co-develop more stable perovskite solar cells and advance automated, increasingly autonomous materials experiments, providing a strong foundation for an academic or industrial career in sustainable materials development, energy technology, or accelerated laboratory research.
As a doctoral student, you will engage in accelerated experimental materials screening and optimization, in-depth characterization of promising materials candidates, and eventually full solar cell devices. You will design and implement laboratory synthesis and characterization equipment with a high degree of automation, and develop machine learning-aided control systems using Python. The position also includes advanced coursework within the Graduate School of Materials Science and opportunities to teach at the undergraduate level or perform other duties for up to 20% of your working hours.
Eligibility requirements include a Master’s degree (or equivalent 4-year Bachelor’s degree for non-Swedish applicants) in Materials Science, Engineering, Physics, Chemistry/Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mechanics, Solid Mechanics, or a closely related field. Strong English communication skills are essential. Applicants should have education or experience in materials science, programming, machine learning, or equipment automation (including microfluidic systems, robotics, and remote sensing). Programming skills are required, with Python experience considered beneficial. A willingness to participate in experimental science, including instrument building and laboratory work, is necessary. Teamwork and social skills are valued due to the interdisciplinary nature of the project, and additional experience in handcraft hobbies, photography, or tooling is appreciated.
The position is fully funded from the start, with a fixed-term appointment of four years and the possibility to extend to five years if teaching duties are undertaken. The starting salary is 34,550 SEK per month (as of May 25, 2025), and doctoral students at Chalmers enjoy comprehensive employee benefits. Physical presence in Gothenburg is required throughout the study period, and a valid residence permit must be presented by the start date. Chalmers offers a dynamic and inspiring working environment, Swedish language courses, and is committed to gender equality and diversity through initiatives like the GENIE project.
Applications are welcomed until March 8, 2026. For further details and to apply, visit the Chalmers job portal. For questions regarding the position, contact Assistant Professor Armi Tiihonen at [email protected]. Join Chalmers and contribute to cutting-edge research in sustainable energy and materials science in a vibrant academic community.