Faculty and Student Teams Program

Project Descriptions

National Renewable Energy Laboratory
National Center for Photovoltaics

Transparent Conducting Oxide Development

Project Description

The mixed metal oxide materials development and evaluation in the group focus on transparent conducting oxides for contacts in a number of different photovoltaic technologies.  The performance of these materials in relation to their materials cost and process requirements are key aspect of this research.  Qualified teams will conduct measurements to evaluate these novel oxide systems.  Experimental opportunities include but are not limited to stability evaluation of novel oxides in a variety of conditions, oxide materials development, and in device performance evaluation of alternative oxide materials. Characterization of these systems will include but is not limited to, electrical transport, optical, structural and photovoltaic device performance measurements.

Applicants Responsibilities and Relationship to Projects

Applicants will receive support under the Department of Energy Faculty Student Team Research Program (FaST) to work collaboratively with the project research team at NREL for up to 10 weeks during the summer starting in June.  Summer and academic year visits by NREL will be schedule by mutual agreement between the Research Project Managers at NREL and the successful applicant.  Faculty will be expected to identify students from the campus to participate in the FaST program offered by the Department of Energy at NREL. Faculty will provide mentorship and/or advising support to students during the summer research activities.  It is expected that the Faculty member will become an integral part of the research team working on this project and will support the project through the academic year on his or her campus.

Qualifications of Ideal Candidate

Faculty: Ph.D. in chemistry, physics, material science, and electrical engineering with experience in photovoltaics.  Works well in a collaborative environment with students and other researchers.  Currently teaches and collaborates with students in his/her field.  Possess good written and verbal communication skills.  Willing to work at NREL for an extended period during the summer.

Students:  Working towards an undergraduate degree in chemistry, physics, material science, and electrical engineering.  Works well in collaboration with faculty, other students, and researchers. Possesses good written and verbal communications skills.  Willing to work at NREL for an extended period during the summer.

Support and Financial Commitments

See Financial Information.

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