Project description

We are developing a novel smart BIPV module that integrates micro-concentrator photovoltaics with advanced planar micro-tracking to achieve high power density and active daylight management. This innovative system concentrates direct solar irradiance onto narrow strip PV cells while transmitting diffuse light through a transparent backplane, ensuring uniform daylighting and improved visual comfort. Our research encompasses several lines of work, including the optimization of micro-optical designs via advanced simulation and scalable roll-to-plate UV imprinting, the development of robust mechanical and mechatronic systems for precise solar tracking, and the integration of the module into realistic architectural mock-ups for outdoor performance evaluation and building information modeling-based energy simulations (BIM architectural toolchains). Our team will aim to collaborate with BIPV industry leaders, as well as academic partners like IMDEA Nanoscience and Uni. Salerno to solve the technical challenges ahead and ensure industrialization. We are seeking a highly motivated MSCA postdoctoral fellow to contribute to diverse research activities—from refining optical system and module integration to conducting comprehensive outdoor validation studies that involve a mock-up of a reference office. This position offers a dynamic environment for innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration, with opportunities for international networking and high-impact publications. Join us to advance cutting-edge BIPV technology and contribute to Europe’s sustainable urban energy goals. You can check PI team’s work orcid.org/0000-0002-2751-7208 

Brief description of the Centre/Research Group

The Solar Energy Institute at Technical University of Madrid (IES-UPM) (www.ies.upm.es) was founded in 1979 and over the last four decades has been a catalyst positioning Spain at the forefront of PV technology. Both basic and applied research on photovoltaic cells and systems are the main activities carried out at IES-UPM, and currently keeps a staff of about 70 people. The Instruments and Systems Integration group at IES-UPM, founded by Becquerel Prize recipient Prof. Gabriel Sala, with a strong track record in concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) technologies. Our team is composed of 6 professors, 5 PhD, 2 research engineers and several graduate and under-graduate students. Our research combines advanced optical design and prototyping with the development of novel instruments and characterization techniques to achieve industrial innovations in PV technology, specifically targeting enhanced efficiency, new functionalities, and reduced carbon emissions. Our work enables innovative integration of optics and cells and drives PV innovation across diverse applications where advanced light managements adds a strong value, including building-integrated PV (BIPV), vehicle-integrated PV, bifacial single-axis tracking, and space solar electric propulsion. Our lab has comprehensive modeling, fabrication, assembly, and indoor and outdoor characterization facilities for the development and monitoring of innovative PV modules, notably based on micro-concentrator layers. The supervisor is currently PI of 4 projects for the development of innovative PV in BIPV and space solar arrays.

Documents to be submitted

CV

Motivation letter (1 page maximum)

Name and contact of three referees

Deadline: 15 May 2025