Synthesis and Characterization of Functional Organic Materials for Photovoltaics
Project Description
Organic solar cells have emerged as a promising next-generation photovoltaic technology due to their lightweight nature, mechanical flexibility, and compatibility with low-cost solution processing. A key challenge in this field is the development of novel organic semi-conductors that can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity while minimizing energy loss.
In this project, students will participate in the design and synthesis of functional organic molecules for photovoltaic applications. The work will involve basic organic synthesis, purification techniques, and preliminary characterization of optical and electronic properties. Students will also gain exposure to how molecular structure influences materials properties and device performance. This project is suitable for undergraduate students with an interest in chemistry, material science, or energy research. Prior laboratory experience is beneficial but not required.
In this project, students will participate in the design and synthesis of functional organic molecules for photovoltaic applications. The work will involve basic organic synthesis, purification techniques, and preliminary characterization of optical and electronic properties. Students will also gain exposure to how molecular structure influences materials properties and device performance. This project is suitable for undergraduate students with an interest in chemistry, material science, or energy research. Prior laboratory experience is beneficial but not required.
Supervisor
YAN He
Co-Supervisor
PUN, Sai Ho
Quota
2
Course type
UROP1100
UROP2100
UROP3100
UROP3200
UROP4100
Applicant's Roles
The undergraduate researcher will assist graduate students or postdoctoral researchers in ongoing projects. Responsibilities may include:
- Assisting in the synthesis of organic compounds using standard laboratory techniques
-Performing purification methods such as column chromatography and recrystallization
-Conducting basic characterization (e.g. UV-Vis absorption, NMR sample preparation)
-Recording and organizing experimental data in a lab notebook
-Participating in group discussions and progress meetings
The student will work under close supervision and receive training in all required techniques.
- Assisting in the synthesis of organic compounds using standard laboratory techniques
-Performing purification methods such as column chromatography and recrystallization
-Conducting basic characterization (e.g. UV-Vis absorption, NMR sample preparation)
-Recording and organizing experimental data in a lab notebook
-Participating in group discussions and progress meetings
The student will work under close supervision and receive training in all required techniques.
Applicant's Learning Objectives
By the end of the project, the student is expected to:
-Understand fundamental concepts in organic photovoltaics and organic semiconductors
-Develop basic skills in organic synthesis and laboratory safety practices
-Gain hands-on experience with common characterization techniques
-Learn how to analyze experimental data and relate molecular structure to material-properties
-Improve scientific communication skills through discussions and reporting
-Understand fundamental concepts in organic photovoltaics and organic semiconductors
-Develop basic skills in organic synthesis and laboratory safety practices
-Gain hands-on experience with common characterization techniques
-Learn how to analyze experimental data and relate molecular structure to material-properties
-Improve scientific communication skills through discussions and reporting
Complexity of the project
Easy