PhD Scholarship in Sustainable Indoor Solar Cells for Ambient Light Energy Harvesting in IoT Applications at DTU Electro – Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark

Summary

The PhD Scholarship at DTU Electro focuses on developing high‑efficiency Sb₂S₃ thin‑film solar cells for indoor light harvesting to power battery‑free IoT devices. The project combines thin‑film synthesis, device engineering, and advanced optoelectronic characterization, with a research stay at Tallinn University of Technology. Candidates must hold a two‑year master’s degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology or a related field and possess knowledge of semiconductor physics and photovoltaics. The three‑year full‑time position offers a salary based on the Danish collective agreement and is advertised for a start date of 1 February 2027. Applications are due by 30 October 2026 and must be submitted as a single PDF in English.

Key Facts

Department	Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering
Position Type	PhD Scholarship
Discipline	Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, Nanotechnology
Research Area	Thin-film solar cells for indoor energy harvesting
Degree Required	Two-year master's degree (120 ECTS points) or equivalent
Funding	Scholarship
Contract Duration	3 years
Language	English
Deadline	2026-10-30
Required Documents	Cover letter, Curriculum vitae, Grade transcripts, BSc/MSc diploma (including official description of grading scale)
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The project aims to design and optimise Sb₂S₃ thin‑film solar cells for efficient indoor energy harvesting, investigate material and interface effects on charge transport and voltage losses, and develop series‑connected mini‑modules capable of powering battery‑free IoT devices. A research stay at TalTech will support advanced defect and interface studies, and results will be disseminated through publications and conferences.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimise Sb₂S₃ thin‑film solar cells and device architectures
• Characterise solar cells under varied indoor illumination spectra and intensities
• Investigate defect states, interface recombination and voltage losses
• Develop series‑connected indoor photovoltaic mini‑modules
• Supervise and contribute to MSc/BSc student projects
• Document and disseminate research via publications and conferences

Required Skills

• Strong academic background in physics, chemistry, materials science or nanotechnology
• Knowledge of semiconductor physics and photovoltaics
• Experience with thin‑film materials and solar‑cell fabrication
• Skills in optoelectronic and electrical characterisation
• Familiarity with indoor photovoltaic testing

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a strong academic background in physics, chemistry, materials science, nanotechnology or related fields, who hold a two‑year master’s degree (or equivalent) and have knowledge of semiconductor physics, thin‑film fabrication, and photovoltaic characterization are encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Full‑time position with salary according to Danish collective agreement
• Three‑year contract with start date 1 February 2027
• International research collaboration with DTU and TalTech
• Access to monthly free relocation and startup seminars
• Opportunity to work in an inclusive, international environment

About the Employer

DTU Electro, part of the Technical University of Denmark, employs over 300 researchers in electrical and photonics engineering. The department focuses on sustainable energy, greener internet technologies, cyber security and health technology, collaborating with industry and international partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

Applications must be submitted by 30 October 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

What degree is required?

A two‑year master’s degree (120 ECTS) or an equivalent qualification is required.

How long is the contract?

The appointment is for a period of three years, starting 1 February 2027.

Is the position funded?

Yes, it is a PhD scholarship funded by DTU under the collective agreement.

What language must the application be in?

All application materials must be submitted in English.