Internship | Investigation of reverse bias degradation of perovskite solar cells

The solar cell technology based around the perovskite material group is relatively young but very successful, with excellent efficiencies reached with lab-scale cells. One of the remaining hurdles preventing commercialization is, however, the stability of perovskite solar cells. ​​​​​​​ One of the causes for rapid degradation in operation is said to be partial shading and the accompanying negative (called reverse) bias. New ways of protecting perovskite solar cells against this phenomenon have to be found. The first step towards that is to understand what actually happens in perovskite solar cells on a material level when reverse biases are applied. Working on that question will be the topic of this internship.

Characterizing perovskite solar cells before and after reverse bias degradation is the way in which you will contribute to unravel the detailed degradation mechanisms. Among the characterization techniques employed are current-voltage (IV) measurements, electroluminescence (EL), thermography, and EQE measurements.
You will receive extensive guidance from and work closely with experts on perovskites, tandem devices, stress exposure, electrical engineering and PV reliability. Due to embedding in the TNO organisation, these experts will be your direct colleagues. The research will take place on the High Tech Campus in Eindhoven.

• A background in physics, chemistry, material science or electrical engineering.
• 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.

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. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative working environment, with top experts as colleagues.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo- and hbo-students, 390 euro for mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Eight hours of leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet TNO-colleagues 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:

• As stated in the internship policy, TNO doesn’t sign contracts from educational institutions. Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed, by the intern, TNO and the educational institution. This agreement is established in cooperation with Universiteiten van Nederland according to the UNL-template. If you are not a student at a Dutch college or university, or if you are a mbo-student, the TNO internship agreement will apply. In that case, a ‘proof of educational institution’ and a ‘proof of internship as part of course’ is needed instead of a signature from the educational institution.
• Furthermore, you have to be registered at an educational institution to be eligible to do a paid internship at TNO. If you are not studying at a university you are only eligible for a work experience internship (unpaid, maximum of 8 weeks).
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. It is not possible to work from abroad.