Materials Engineering: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Advancing Sustainable Solar Solutions to Transform Global Energy Access

Working as part of Swansea University’s UNESCO Chair in Sustainable Energy Technologies and the REACH-PSM project (Resilient Renewable Energy Access Through Community-Driven Holistic Development in Perovskite Solar Module Manufacturing), this PhD offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of innovative, sustainable solar energy solutions.

The UNESCO Chair addresses the urgent need for equitable and sustainable energy access, fostering global partnerships to develop renewable energy technologies that align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. The REACH-PSM project complements this mission by focusing on community-driven approaches to perovskite solar module (PSM) manufacturing, ensuring energy independence and resilience in underserved regions, particularly across the continent of Africa. Together, these initiatives aim to revolutionise renewable energy access by integrating cutting-edge technology with social and environmental sustainability.

Your Role

This PhD project will accelerate the development of printable perovskite photovoltaics (PV) for deployment in Africa by focusing on the sustainable materials that form the foundation of these technologies. Guided by advanced photochemical characterisation techniques, you will use tools to deepen understanding of the uniformity, morphology, performance, and stability of perovskite devices. You will work to develop and optimise materials that are cost-effective, efficient, and adaptable to diverse environmental conditions. The project will also involve assessing material performance and environmental impacts, through tools like lifecycle analysis, contributing to lifecycle sustainability and the development of processes for reusing and recycling key materials into second-generation products. By engaging with UNESCO Chair partners and communities, your work will ensure that these renewable energy technologies are both technically advanced and socially impactful, with real-world testing and applications in underserved regions.

Why Apply?

This position offers access to state-of-the-art research facilities at Swansea University’s Bay Campus and the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts, including Prof. Matthew Davies, Dr Sarah-Jane Potts and Prof. Trystan Watson. You will join a well-resourced, internationally renowned, and growing team that brings together expertise from diverse disciplines to address global challenges in renewable energy. Working closely with a global network of UNESCO Chair partners and REACH-PSM collaborators, you will be part of a vibrant and supportive research environment that values teamwork and innovation. If you are passionate about renewable energy, sustainability, and driving real-world impact, we invite you to apply for this unique opportunity to join a global effort to advance energy access and resilience.

Funding Details

Funding Comment

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £19,237 for 2024/25). 

Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year will also be available. 

Scholarship open to UK and international fee eligible applicants.

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