Research Scientist - Photovoltaics

• Do you want to be involved in the solar revolution? 
• Use your expertise to solve major issues facing Australia and the world 
• Come, join CSIRO - Australia's premier science & technology research organisation 

The position:

We have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and self-motivated research scientist to join the Photovoltaics Team at the CSIRO Energy Centre in Newcastle (CSIRO Energy Centre video). The goal of our team is to develop new technologies that will drive down the cost of photovoltaics and ignite the uptake of solar energy in Australia and around the world.

With its beautiful harbour and stunning beaches, Newcastle is just two hours from Sydney and was recently rated by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top ten cities (www.visitnewcastle.com.au).

The ideal candidate will have a PhD in a relevant discipline and a proven record of achievement in photovoltaics research. They will relish a hands-on role in the laboratory, having practical strengths in optics and electronics whilst also being able to apply the principles of semiconductor physics to the design of photovoltaic devices. Experience working with organic photovoltaics will be highly regarded.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with CSIRO’s major project in flexible electronics (http://www.csiro.au/science/Flexible-Electronics.html), based in Melbourne. This group is respected internationally as a centre of innovation for functional organic materials.

Location:  Newcastle, NSW
Salary:     $80K - $87K plus up to 15.4% superannuation
Ref No:    2011/81

Specifically you will:

• Contribute to driving the direction of CSIRO’s photovoltaics research
• Play a significant role in CSIRO’s development of organic photovoltaics, particularly in the area of device architecture
• Be the primary person responsible for constructing the next stage of CSIRO’s photovoltaics performance characterisation facility
• Prepare original scientific journal articles for publication
• Present your research at national and international conferences
• Identify and pursue beneficial collaborations with other institutions working in the field
• Contribute to the effective functioning of the Photovoltaics research team and the achievement of CSIRO’s broader organisational objectives.

To be considered, you must hold a PhD in a relevant discipline, as well as having:

• a minimum of three years experience in photovoltaics research**
• the capability for original thinking in the design of photovoltaic devices
• strong written and oral communication skills
• a strong commitment to team-based processes and outcomes

**The three years may include research toward completion of a PhD, however the ideal candidate will be more experienced, typically having already completed a postdoctoral appointment.

About CSIRO

Australia is founding its future on science and innovation. Its national science agency Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is a powerhouse of ideas, technologies and skills for building prosperity, growth, health and sustainability. It serves governments, industries, business and communities.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are encouraged to apply for all CSIRO positions.