Invited seminar
Author: Dr. Tom Macdonald
Affiliation: DDepartment of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at University College London
When: Friday, January 23, 2026 - 12:00 to 14:00
Where: Salón de Actos de l'Edifici d'Investigació II
Presented by: Dr. Luis Lanzetta
Abstract: 

Recent breakthroughs in perovskite solar cells highlight the transformative potential of combining advanced nanomaterials with precise materials engineering to overcome challenges in efficiency, stability, and defect control. This work focuses on lead and lead-tin halide perovskites, employing innovative strategies to enhance performance and durability. For lead-based systems, we demonstrate that nanomaterials derived from pnictogens, such as phosphorene nanoribbons, enhance charge extraction and device performance through a simple interlayer approach. Additionally, we show that fluorinating Poly(aryl)amines (PTAA) narrows the energy gap between hole transport materials and perovskite layers. By synthesizing novel fluorinated PTAA derivatives, we reveal the critical role of fluorine positioning in tuning energy levels, significantly benefiting wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells. In lead-tin perovskites, we employ additive engineering, such as guanidinium thiocyanate, to regulate crystal growth, achieving uniform films with reduced non-radiative recombination and significantly enhanced efficiency. By integrating nanostructures, tailored fabrication techniques, and photophysical insights, we drive advancements toward next-generation perovskite solar cells.

Biography: 
Thomas J. Macdonald is an Associate Professor and University Research Fellow in the Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at University College London. He previously held a prestigious 1851 Research Fellowship at Imperial College London. Before this, he was a Ramsay Memorial Fellow in the Department of Chemistry at University College London working on nanomaterials for solar energy conversion. He obtained his Ph.D. at the University of South Australia in 2016 working in the research group of Prof. Thomas Nann. He has a strong interest in renewable energy and extensive experience in the synthesis of functional nanomaterials and the fabrication of third-generation photovoltaics.