Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Processing and Characterisation of Metal Halide Perovskites

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in Physics, who will work on an EPSRC funded project entitled “Perfecting Halide Perovskites: From Precursor Ink Chemistry to Defect Control.”

This project will advance the fundamental understanding of the impact of deposition modalities on crystallisation and defect formation in halide perovskite thin-films. Halide perovskites are a class of low-cost, high-quality semiconductor materials which have the potential to enter and make significant impact in the photovoltaic (PV) and LED markets. Importantly, by taking a bottom-up approach, this project aims to generate a detailed understanding of the crystallisation processes in perovskite thin-films, and identify how manipulating these affect the nanoscale chemical and structural composition of perovskite thin-films. Through gaining understanding and control of these systems from the nanoscale, this project aims to deliver improved reproducibility and performance of perovskite PV and LEDs.

About the Role

The successful candidate will focus primarily on fabrication of perovskite thin-films fabricated through both solution and vapour-processing approaches. These films will be characterised through a variety of high-resolution electron microscopy techniques to determine both structure and composition at the nanoscale. This will then be correlated with a variety of bulk measurements of structure, composition and optoelectronic properties. The candidate will also work closely with other colleagues to probe the stability and reliability of these materials in optoelectronic devices

The post-holder will have the opportunity to teach.

About You

Applicants should possess or be close to obtaining a PhD in physics, materials science, chemistry, engineering, or a related field.

Applicants should be highly experienced, and have an established track record in the collection and processing of high-resolution electron microscopy and electron diffraction data, with particular focus on soft materials. Experience in thin-film fabrication and/or additional characterisation techniques such as EDX/EELS and GIWAXS/GISAXS is desirable. Previous experience with metal halide perovskites, and sample preparation for cryo-electron microscopy would be advantageous.

Applicants should be highly motivated and have excellent skills in working collaboratively as part of a team. They should be able to set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks with deadlines and adapt to evolving scientific questions. A good track record of high-quality publications is desirable. Having the ability to direct your own research and interpret your results independently is a must.

Application Process

You will be required to upload a covering letter/supporting statement, CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

Please direct enquiries about the role to Prof. Nakita K. Noel (nakita.noel@physics.ox.ac.uk )

The closing date for applications is on Wednesday 16 September 2026.