You will develop next-generation hybrid solar technologies that combine photovoltaic, solar thermal, and radiative cooling functionalities within a single, high-performance collector or system, to fully use the hot sun and also simultaneously use the cold universe. The resulting technologies are envisioned to simultaneously generate electricity, heating and cooling.

Organizational unit

Institute of Microstructure Technology (IMT)

Job description

You have the following tasks:

• Mechanical and optical design of next-generation hybrid solar collectors
• Selection of advanced optical materials; development of novel materials if required
• Optical, thermal, and electrical characterization of critical system components
• Numerical modeling and performance optimization of hybrid collector systems
• Fabrication and experimental evaluation through both indoor and outdoor testing
• Exploration of real-world applications, including integration into buildings and/or solar hydrogen production systems.

The activity offers the opportunity for a part-time doctorate.

The host institute offers a comprehensive range of state-of-the-art research facilities. These include cleanrooms for advanced optical material fabrication, full-spectrum solar simulators, research-grade weather stations, a fully equipped mechanical workshop, and dedicated outdoor testing sites at the KIT Solar Park. The position is based within the Hybrid Solar Technologies (HST) Lab (https://www.imt.kit.edu/3855.php), led by Dr. Gan Huang, which focuses on cutting-edge solutions for next-generation hybrid solar energy harvesting.

Starting date

01.09.2025 or later

Personal qualification

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related field
• Solid background in mechanical design, optics, photovoltaics, and heat transfer
• High proficiency in spoken and written English

Salary

Salary category 13, depending on the fulfillment of professional and personal requirements.