PhD Student (f/m/d) in Chemistry / Physics for X-Ray Spectroscopic Characterization of Interfaces in Tandem Solar Cell Stacks Based on Halide Perovskites

PhD Student (f/m/d) in Chemistry / Physics for X-Ray Spectroscopic Characterization of Interfaces in Tandem Solar Cell Stacks Based on Halide Perovskites Kennziffer: SE 2025/5 In the Interface Design department, we investigate the relationship between the chemical and electronic properties of surfaces and interfaces in thin-film stacks and their influence on energy conversion devices such as catalysts, solar cells, and batteries. We utilize UHV-based spectroscopy as well as in-situ and operando characterization techniques, particularly at the Energy Materials In-situ Laboratory Berlin (EMIL) and the HiKE end station at BESSY II. Currently, we are collaborating with partners to optimize halide perovskite-based tandem solar cells, using X-ray spectroscopic methods to analyze their interfaces. We are looking to strengthen our team with a highly motivated and curious PhD candidate. Our department offers a PhD position on the topic of "X-ray Spectroscopic Characterization of Halide Perovskite Materials and their Interfaces in Tandem Solar Cells." This research will involve working within a focused research group, where you will concentrate on material characterization using X-ray and electron-based spectroscopy techniques. You will work at the Energy Materials In-Situ Laboratory Berlin (EMIL) and at the Synchrotron Light Source BESSY II of the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie GmbH (HZB) in Berlin-Adlershof. HZB is part of the Helmholtz Association, the largest German non-university research organization contributing to solve global challenges. Your Tasks * You will be responsible for the characterization of halide perovskite absorber, contact, and functional interlayers in perovskite solar cells and their interfaces using X-ray spectroscopic methods. The focus will be on uncovering the chemical and electronic structure of surfaces and buried interfaces in layer stacks provided by project partners. * Based on your results, you will provide key insights for a knowledge-based optimization approach. * You will support the further development of spectroscopic methods for characterizing halide perovskite-based materials and interfaces. * You will contribute to the development of methods and instruments for spectroscopic investigations of photovoltaic materials and thin-film stacks under operating conditions. * You will prepare beam time proposals and organize as well as support synchrotron measurement campaigns. * You will coordinate the exchange of samples and results with project partners. * You will present and publish your findings at international conferences / workshops and in peer-reviewed journals. Your Profile * Highly motivated and curious scientist with a Master’s degree in Physics, (Physical) Chemistry, or Materials Science. * Experience in operating ultra-high vacuum (UHV) equipment and using X-ray spectroscopy methods is mandatory. * Research experience in photovoltaic materials is an advantage, but not required (a strong enthusiasm for this topic is highly encouraged!). * Independent and efficient communication and collaboration with project partners are expected, particularly for organizing sample exchanges and measurement campaigns. * Excellent English skills are required; additional German language skills are an advantage * A high level of intercultural competence, flexibility, resilience and the ability to work effectively in a team are essential. Your Benefits at HZB * Opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative materials and technological solutions for a climate-neutral future in cooperation with leading international researchers * Commitment to diversity and sustainability through an inclusive working environment, promotion of diversity sensitivity and implementation of sustainable and climate-neutral methods * Career-enhancing networking opportunities and individual mentoring and support from the HZB Graduate Centre and HZB Postdoc Office * Attractive remuneration through payment according to TVöD Bund * 30 days holiday/year * Extensive additional benefits, such as company pension plan (VBL), subsidy for public transport (Deutschlandticket Job) and company sports programmes * Good work-life balance through counselling services on family and career and flexible working time models: Flexitime, part-time, hybrid working * 48 months fixed-term employment contract * And a team that is looking forward to meeting you! Fixed term contract for 48 months. The salary is based on the Collective Agreement for the German Public Service (TVöD-Bund). How to apply We ask you to enclose the following documents with your application: * Motivation letter that includes your research interests and explains why you are applying for this position * Curriculum vitae with the stages of your career, publications, research experience and the contact details of at least two scientific references * Certificates and grades We look forward to receiving your application via our application management system by21.04.2025. For reasons of data protection regulations, we are unfortunately unable to consider applications that reach us by other means (such as email or mail) in the application process. We very much want our workplace to be diverse, and welcome applications from people with different backgrounds. It is our mission to promote equal opportunities and to improve women’s representation in the workforce. We are therefore very interested in receiving applications from women. Where the qualifications are met, we will give preference to people with disabilities. BESSY II / Wilhelm-Conrad-Röntgen-Campus in Adlershof Albert-Einstein-Straße 15, 12489 Berlin www.helmholtz-berlin.de ➜ APPLY HERE! Climate change poses serious challenges to the whole world. At Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin, we are researching materials for a climate-neutral future. 1200 employees from all over the world are working together at HZB towards this goal. Join us, and help us achieve it! Learn more about HZB on our website . Follow us on our social media channels LinkedIn , X , Instagram , or visit our YouTube channel . CONTACT Prof. Dr.-Ing. Marcus Bär +49 (030) 8062 - 15641 marcus.baer@helmholtz-berlin.de IMPRINT &DATA PROTECTION