Professor Sebastian Bonilla, Associate Professor of Materials at the University of Oxford, has joined the Oxford Suzhou Centre for Advanced Research (OSCAR) to lead its new Solar Energy Lab. Renowned for his work on silicon-based solar technologies, Prof. Bonilla aims to tackle global energy challenges through international collaboration, particularly leveraging China's strengths in solar manufacturing and rapid prototyping. His lab will focus on developing tandem solar cells—devices that combine two semiconductors to surpass the efficiency limits of conventional silicon panels, aiming to exceed 40% efficiency.
A parallel goal is to enhance the long-term reliability of solar modules for field deployment over decades. At OSCAR, Bonilla appreciates the exceptional administrative support and interdisciplinary research environment, which allows researchers to concentrate on impactful science. In his recent seminar, he emphasized the importance of ultra-high-efficiency photovoltaics to meet global energy needs sustainably. His Oxford team has made key advances in interface loss reduction, pioneering nanolayer materials, and novel device architectures to push tandem solar cell performance beyond 35%. With over 110 publications and multiple prestigious fellowships and awards, Prof. Bonilla brings world-class expertise and a collaborative vision to advance clean energy technologies at OSCAR.
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