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Postdoctoral Scholar in Solar Energy

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Position description

The Kurtz Laboratory directed by Dr. Sarah Kurtz is looking for a self-motivated, creative, enthusiastic and highly qualified postdoctoral scholar expert in solar energy to work on a project full-time which will focus on characterization and instrumentation for in situ measurements of solar modules. Dr. Kurtz is currently working on a variety of different projects to analyze solar module IV characteristics under varying conditions, e.g. temperature and irradiance, to simulate car-roof integrated mounting and provide information for selection of PV materials/modules for this emerging application.

The successful candidate will have previous training and established track record in solar module characterization, design, simulation, development, and experimental testing. The postdoctoral researcher is expected to stay abreast of recent publications in the field, carry out the research independently and as part of a team, develop the system into a fully-fledged demonstration system and publish research articles. The postdoctoral scholar is also expected to assist with mentoring graduate students and undergraduate students who will work on the project, and to be in charge of properly maintaining the equipment in the lab.

Qualifications: Applicants must have obtained a PhD in Electrical Engineering or an energy-related field. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required. Highly self-motivated individuals who have demonstrated the ability to conduct scientific research successfully and work independently are desirable.

The candidate should have demonstrable experience in at least two, preferably more, of the following areas: 1) advanced understanding of solar cells 2) advanced computer-based analysis of solar IV, temperature and irradiation measurements; 3) understanding of heat transfer mechanisms; 4) tester design and experimental quantification; 5) advanced computer-based analysis of experimental data.

Interested applicants are required to submit 1) a cover letter 2) curriculum vitae and 3) a list of three references with contact information including mailing address, phone number and e-mail address; this will be submitted through the Recruit system.

Salary will be based on the University of California Academic Salary Scales. Review of applications will begin immediately. Position is open until filled with a final closing date of August 31, 2019. Starting dates are negotiable.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system’s 10 campuses. With 8,500 undergraduate and graduate students (https://www.ucmerced.edu/fast-facts), UC Merced provides outstanding educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California. The Merced 2020 Project doubled the physical capacity of the campus, and enhanced academic distinction, student success, and research excellence (https://merced2020.ucmerced.edu/).

Please contact Dr. Sarah Kurtz at skurtz@ucmerced.edu for additional information.

Application Requirements

Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.

  • Cover Letter

Reference requirements
  • 3 required (contact information only)

Job location

Merced, CA