Theoretical modelling of state-of-the-art solar cells

Project scope

• The next generation of solar cells will be based on so-called "tandem" structures, which combine two solar cells into a single device. This integration presents many interesting and varied problems in how to best design these tandem cells and how to best package them into solar modules. In this project, you will have the choice of modelling these devices using a range of theoretical frameworks, all seeking to answer the question: how can we get the most out of the next generation of solar energy technologies?
• This project will be primarily office based, using software simulation tools. However, for the right student and project length, some experimental measurement work in the Solar PV group characterisation laboratories can be performed to enhance the theoretical analyses.
• The project can be adapted to different lengths ranging from one semester (3-4 months) to a full academic year. Available to start from 2 March 2026.
• Workload of at least one day per week.
• Suitable for a student project for ENGN2706, ENGN2707, ENGN3706, ENGN3712, ENGN4200, ENGN4350, ENGN8601, and ENGN8602.
• Suitable for both domestic and international students.

Project description

Fundamentally, a project in this space will target a specific operating condition (for example, partial shading of a solar module due to soiling or shadows) and aim to understand how this affects the operation of a tandem solar cell. This knowledge will in turn inform solar cell design and/or solar module design, to maximise energy output under these conditions. There are many such conditions we can consider, which will be discussed in advance.

When you connect two solar cells together, you entangle them with each other, optically, electrically and electronically. The operation of tandem solar cells thus becomes more complex than the sum of their parts. Further, the conditions under which solar cells operate is many and varied. Optimising these complex solar technologies under variable and dynamic operating conditions is a non-trivial task, which requires rigorous modelling and careful assessment.

In addition, a material called "perovskite" is showing great promise for tandem solar cells, but it brings its own unique challenges, above and beyond tandem solar cells themselves, and requires new theoretical models.

Deliverables

This project will address meaningful knowledge gaps in tandem solar cell operation. This knowledge will inform tandem solar cell design within the Photovoltaic group. Our group has multiple ongoing projects with commercial solar cell manufactures. This means that the contribution of this project has the potential to influence real-world solar cell design.

Information for applicants

Essential skills and background

• This project will require some background in analogue electronics or semiconductor physics. Although the scope can be adapted to existing knowledge levels, it will be difficult to obtain the necessary fundamental knowledge and deliver on the project goals in the time available.

Desirable requirements

• Familiarity with the use of software simulation for physical systems is highly desirable. Being comfortable with handling and manipulating large data sets, and the capacity to visual simulation results via scientific plotting software (e.g., Matlab or Origin) will be an advantage.

Student takeaways

• Students who undertake this project will significantly broaden their understanding of the fundamentals of photovoltaic energy conversion, and the challenges of designing tandem solar cells.
• An opportunity to network with the HDR students and research staff in the ANU Photovoltaics group.
• Students who are interested in further graduate studies will in particular benefit from working with our team.

How to apply

If you are interested, please send a copy of your CV (resume), current academic transcript, and a brief statement outlining relevant knowledge and experience as outlined by the requirements above to the project supervisor via email.