Internship | Post-mortem analysis of Photovoltaic modules

Thin-film PV technologies have a great potential for a wide range of applications. However, a better understanding of the degradation occurring in those modules will help their large scale implementation. We are studying modules that have degraded in the field via our cutting-edge technique

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In the project you will be involved with, we develop methods to investigate the defects in thin-film PV modules: their nature, their impact on the module performance and eventually their root cause. This is done by combining various characterisation techniques to work out what caused the defects formation and possibly run specific experiments to recreate these defects in the laboratory and validate our findings.
You will use, among other techniques, electroluminescence, photoluminescence, lock-in thermography (illuminated or dark), scanning electron microscopy, Raman and current-voltage (I-V) measurements.
The work is divided between hands-on experiments and data analysis/interpretation. The ratio between experiments and analysis can be tuned to the candidate’s abilities/preferences.
The research will take place at TNO Solliance on the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven.

• A background in physics, chemistry, material science or electrical engineering or related studies
• Interest in renewable energy
• High motivation, with a curious nature and a taste for problem-solving
• Ability to work autonomously and good social skills to interact with your team and get the information you need from the most knowledgeable people around you
• The duration of this project should be minimum six months, preferably in the MSc phase of your study
• You need to be affiliated with a university during the internship for eligibility

We would love to receive your application! We are looking for a MSc student who can start in the fall. The position is in principle experimentally/lab based with sufficient space for theory and reporting. We might however ask you to execute a part of your internship from home (e.g. as a literature study), although we strongly hope we can give you as much access to our lab as possible. It should be noted that our minimum internship period is six months, but we are currently especially interested in students that want to come nine months or longer.

You want to work on the precursor of your career; a work placement 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. Naturally, we provide suitable work placement compensation.

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.