Internship | Manufacturing and characterization of stable perovskite solar cells for tandem application

Inorganic-organic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted great attention due to their unique intrinsic properties like high ion mobility, wide-ranging light absorption, low exciton binding energy, long carrier charge diffusion length and lifetime, and relatively low manufacturing cost. In just over a decade, their power conversion efficiencies improved from 3.8% to 26.1%. In addition, their wide tunable bandgaps and sharp absorption onset combined with low sub-bandgap absorption make perovskites highly attractive for tandem application. Tandem solar cells offer a way to higher PCEs by stacking cells with different bandgaps on top of each other, which results in a more optimal utilization of the solar spectrum. In this internship project the focus will be on manufacturing and characterization of stable and efficient perovskite solar cells for tandem application.

We are looking for highly motivated master students with a strong theoretical and experimental background in material science, chemistry, and physics for manufacturing efficient and stable perovskite solar cells. The focus will be on manufacturing and optimizing perovskite solar cells for tandem application as well as stability tests of manufactured devices.

The work consists in hands-on experience in cleanroom environment with state-of-the-art fabrication and characterization tools, and data collection and analysis. At the end of the internship, the candidates will be experienced the full processing steps of the perovskite solar cells and they may have an opportunity to publish the findings in well-respected scientific journals.

• A background in material science, physics, chemistry, chemical engineering or related fields.
• Experience in semiconductor cleanroom and characterization lab is advantageous.
• Good communication (in English) skills.
• The duration of this internship is at least 6 months and ideally 10-12 months.
• You need to be affiliated with a university for eligibility.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.