Research project assistant in Physics, with focus on silicon solar cells and applications

Sapere Aude – dare to know – is our motto. Our students and employees develop important knowledge that enrich both the individual and the community. Our academic environment is characterised by curiosity, courage and openness, with a close connection between people, professional roles, disciplines and research. Gender equality, diversity and a democratic approach form the foundation of our organisation. Located in Värmland, a scenic region with a rich cultural life, we are committed to promoting sustainable development in close collaboration with the wider community.
Karlstad University has a total of approximately 1,400 employees and 17,700 students spread across two inspiring campus environments in Karlstad and Arvika. More information at: kau.se/en/work-with-us

The Faculty of Health, Science and Technology is seeking a Research project assistant in Physics to support and strengthen our research activities in the field of industrial type silicon-based solar cells, modules, and applications. You will be placed at the department of Engineering and Physics, which is one of five departments at the faculty. Karlstad University has a research group that works on industrial type solar cells. Today, crystalline silicon is the most successful material for solar cells with a market share of over 90%. The group’s research with international collaborations focuses mainly on industrial type silicon solar cells, modules, and solar cell applications.

At Karlstad University, we characterize solar cells and small solar modules by high-resolution imaging techniques, quantum efficiency measurement, IV-curve measurement, and others. Together with industry partners, we do research on new types of solar modules and applications, as well as new analysis methods are developed.

You will work within existing externally funded research projects, which deal with new products and services within solar electricity, partly in collaboration with organizations that develop new types of solar modules.

The main duties are to do defect analysis and development of new techniques for sample preparation and imaging (for instance using luminescence and microscopy). Also, computer simulations can be performed.

Examples of additional tasks that may be relevant are: writing publications, presenting results at conferences, assisting in the writing of research applications, and providing some support to engineers and students at the department.

To be eligible for the position, applicants are required to hold a master’s degree in physics or in closely related field, relevant for the position. Because a large part of the work and communication is done in English, the applicant must have a good command of English (written and oral).

Relevant knowledge and experience in the field of silicon-based photovoltaics and characterization methods are of considerable weight.

A positive attitude and the ability to work independently, good teamwork skills and good communication skills (written and oral) are of special weight.

A Phd in physics or in closely related field, relevant for the position, is an advantage.

The position is a fixed term, full-time employment. The starting date is subject to agreement. The employment is limited to the end of 2026 with the possibility of prolongation.

Submit the application via the University’s web-based recruitment tool, Varbi. Applicants are responsible for submitting a complete application in accordance with the advertisement, for providing translations of any documents written in a language other than Swedish, Norwegian, Danish or English, and for ensuring that the documentation allows for objective and qualitative assessments. A complete application should be submitted by the application deadline. An incomplete application may jeopardise a fair assessment of qualifications.

Application should include:

• cover letter describing the applicant’s qualifications and research interests in relation to the duties of the position
• CV
• copies of course transcripts, degree certificates, and other certificates
• two references, at least one of which is a current or former supervisor
• Other documents with relevance for the position, that you wish to be considered (not links).

Attach all the documents and publications you wish to be considered to the electronic application (not links). Name each uploaded document to clearly indicate its content.

Application deadline: 6 February, 2026

State the reference no: REK2025/252

We look forward to your application.