Rahul Pandey | Photovoltaic | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Rahul Pandey | Photovoltaic | Young Scientist Award 

Chitkara University | India 

AUTHOR PROFILE

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Rahul Pandey commenced his academic journey at Deen Dayal Upadhyaya College, University of Delhi, earning a Bachelor's degree in Electronics in 2011. His project on designing an autonomous multitasking robot using ATMEGA8 MCU showcased his early ingenuity. He then pursued a Master's degree in Electronics at the University of Delhi, graduating in 2013 with a project focused on the synthesis and characterization of zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films and nanoparticles. His summer training at NIKON INDIA, where he worked on a packaging study project, further honed his practical skills. Pandey's academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. from the Department of Engineering Physics at Delhi Technological University in 2017, with his research on the design and simulations of SiC-based rear contact Si and SiGe solar cells for standalone and tandem applications.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Pandey's professional career began as an Assistant Professor at ABES Institute of Technology in Ghaziabad, where he served from January to May 2018. He then joined Chitkara University in Punjab, where he holds dual roles as Assistant Professor (Research) and Assistant Director (Research) at the Chitkara University Research and Innovation Network (CURIN) since May 2018. Additionally, he is in charge of research partnerships at Chitkara University, fostering collaborations with both domestic and international institutions.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Rahul Pandey has made significant contributions to the field of semiconductor process and device simulation. His research interests include silicon-based high-efficiency solar cells such as PERC, HIT, and TOPCon, POLO contact for high-efficiency silicon solar cells, front surface design to enhance optical coupling, and surface passivation. He is also deeply involved in the development of perovskite solar cells and the study of electron and hole transport layers. Pandey's expertise in semiconductor device simulators like SILVACO TCAD Omni and Victory Bundle, SCAPS-1D, AFORS-HET, and AMPS-1D underpins his innovative research.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Pandey's impact on the field is evidenced by his role as Principal Investigator for a project funded by DST-SERB under the Start-up Research Grant, aimed at developing fabrication feasible PERC solar cells with over 23% conversion efficiency. His recognition as the Outstanding Researcher of Chitkara University for the calendar year 2020 highlights his influence and dedication. His work has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also has practical implications for improving photovoltaic technologies.

ACADEMIC CITES

Rahul Pandey's prolific output includes 194 publications, with his research being widely cited in the academic community. His presence on platforms such as Scopus, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, and ORCID underscores his extensive contributions and collaborations in the field of photovoltaic research.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Pandey's legacy lies in his groundbreaking research on photovoltaic technologies, particularly in the development of high-efficiency solar cells and innovative semiconductor processes. His four granted patents and 20 filed patents illustrate his commitment to advancing technology and fostering innovation. Future contributions from Pandey are anticipated to further enhance the efficiency and feasibility of photovoltaic solutions, addressing global energy challenges.

PHOTOVOLTAIC RESEARCH AND IMPACT

Rahul Pandey's focus on photovoltaic research encompasses a variety of cutting-edge technologies aimed at improving solar cell efficiency and performance. His work on photovoltaic devices includes innovations in PERC, HIT, and TOPCon solar cells, as well as advancements in POLO contacts and surface passivation techniques. His expertise in semiconductor device simulation plays a crucial role in optimizing photovoltaic cell designs for higher efficiency. Pandey's contributions to the photovoltaic field are not only theoretical but also practical, as evidenced by his patents and government-funded projects aimed at commercializing high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies. His ongoing research and future endeavors promise to push the boundaries of photovoltaic innovation, making significant strides towards sustainable energy solutions.

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