Postdoctoral Fellow in Perovskite Photovoltaic Materials

This role is based in Sydney, NSW, and is a full-time, fixed-term contract for 1 year with the possibility of extension for another 4 years.

About the role

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering (SPREE) has an opportunity for a Postdoctoral Fellow to join a leading research team. This role will focus on the design, synthesis, and characterisation of novel functional materials for perovskite photovoltaic applications, contributing to the development of high-performance devices and next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

Working within a collaborative research environment, you will help advance innovative approaches to materials development, device fabrication, and characterisation. This position will provide you with the opportunity to develop your scholarly research and professional activities. You will contribute to the dissemination of research outcomes through appropriate channels and outlets, participate in conferences and workshops, and assist with the supervision of research students.

This role reports to Scientia Professor Xiaojing Hao and has no direct reports.

About the organisation

UNSW is a world-leading institution recognised for its scale, prestige, and impact. With strong industry engagement and partnerships across sectors, UNSW provides a unique environment where academic expertise translates into real-world outcomes. The university is home to cutting-edge research that drives innovation and societal progress, while its excellence in teaching ensures students are prepared to lead in their fields.

The School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering is internationally recognised for its record-breaking research in solar power (photovoltaics) and renewable energy. The PERC solar cell was first invented at UNSW in 1983 and today powers more than 85% of all new solar panel modules worldwide. SPREE continues to be at the forefront of leading-edge research and development in renewable technology as economies transition away from fossil fuels.

Responsibilities

• Design, synthesis, and characterisation of novel functional materials for perovskite photovoltaic applications.
• Contribute to the development of high-performance photovoltaic devices and next-generation technologies.
• Advance innovative approaches to materials development, device fabrication, and characterisation.
• Disseminate research outcomes through publications, conferences, and workshops.
• Assist with the supervision of research students.
• Collaborate across disciplines and build effective relationships within the research team.
• Adhere to health and safety responsibilities and attend relevant training.

Requirements

• A PhD in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Demonstrated expertise in the synthesis, development, and characterisation of functional materials.
• Experience in photovoltaic device fabrication and evaluation is highly desirable.
• Proven commitment to staying updated with discipline knowledge and developments.
• Ability to conduct independent research with limited supervision.
• Track record of publications and conference presentations relative to opportunity.
• Ability to work in a team, collaborate across disciplines, and build effective relationships.
• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills.
• Understanding of and commitment to UNSW’s aims, objectives, and values.

Pay

Salary: AUD $118,467 to $126,711 per annum + 17% superannuation.