The Solar Energy Research Center (SERC Chile), a consortium comprising six Chilean universities (University of Chile, University of Tarapacá, University of Antofagasta, Federico Santa María Technical University, Adolfo Ibáñez University, University of Concepción) and Fundación Chile, offers a postdoctoral position in any of its seven research areas, which are:

1. Solar Energy in Industry/Mining. This research line takes a unified approach to addressing the thermal and electrical requirements of these two sectors and the development of conversion and control technologies for solar power plants. Professor Dr. Samir Kouro of the Federico Santa María Technical University is responsible for this research line.

2.- Electric Power Systems with High Solar Energy Penetration. Covers issues related to supply, quality, power interfaces, and network operation and expansion planning methods for electric power systems with high solar energy penetration. Professor Luis Morán, Ph.D., of the University of Concepción, is responsible for this line of research.

3.- Solar Energy Coordination Systems for Urban and Rural Communities. Explores possibilities for the cost-effective utilization of existing solar energy potential and proposes models for the active participation of local communities. Professor Rodrigo Palma-Behnke, Ph.D., of the University of Chile, is responsible for this line of research. Prof. Palma-Behnke also serves as the director of SERC Chile.

4. Solar Energy Storage. This research line investigates the storage of solar energy through sensible or latent heat storage using salts and other compounds, the generation of hydrogen, and the optimization of storage systems. Professor Hector Galleguillos, Ph.D., of the University of Antofagasta, is responsible for this research line.

5. Solar Water Treatment. Researches methods for the decontamination and disinfection of natural water, the treatment of industrial wastewater, and the solar desalination of seawater and brackish water. It also works to further characterize solar radiation in the Atacama region. Professor Lorena Cornejo, Ph.D., of the University of Tarapaca, is responsible for this line of research.

6. Economic, Social, and Regulatory Issues for Solar Development. This line of research addresses the potential barriers preventing higher penetration rates of solar energy in Chile. It examines the economic, environmental, and regulatory issues and challenges raised by the other research lines. Professor Claudio Agostini, Ph.D., of Adolfo Ibañez University, is responsible for this line of research.

7. Physics and chemistry applied to solar energy technologies. This is a new line of research currently being developed by SERC Chile. Candidates with a basic knowledge of physics or chemistry as applied to the design and/or manufacturing of solar cells will be considered for this position.

SERC Chile was established in 2012 by the Chilean government as a center of excellence in solar energy research. The Center aims to be a world leader in basic research on solar energy technology and applications, with a particular focus on developing the potential of Chile’s Atacama Desert, one of the world’s premier locations for the study and application of solar power. Our goal is to build a solid foundation of scientific knowledge regarding this energy source. By taking advantage of the exceptional conditions in northern Chile, we will conduct scientific research into the technical and economic challenges of solar energy that will have an impact both globally and locally.

(For more details on SERC Chile, please visit the website: sercchile.cl/)

The postdoctoral position is available immediately and funded for one year, renewable for up to three years if the second (5-year) phase of SERC is approved by CONICYT. Otherwise, the postdoctoral position is available through November 2017. This position is best suited for PhD graduates interested in any of the aforementioned research areas and willing to live and work in Chile. Selected applicants are expected to be able to work collaboratively and to produce high-quality, impactful scientific results.

SERC Chile offers a competitive salary, based on the applicants’ experience and track record of productivity. Successful applicants will work full-time on projects approved by the director of the research line with which they will be working. Applicants selected from abroad will receive a stipend to help cover travel and/or relocation expenses.

If you are interested, please contact Prof. Rodrigo Palma, Ph.D., by email at rodpalma@cec.uchile.cl, with psilva@centroenergia.cl in cc, and include “POSTDOCTORAL POSITION – SERC CHILE” in the subject line.

Please include your resume and your areas of interest. Please also include at least one letter of recommendation or a list of three references who may be contacted. The deadline for applications is^{June 24}. Selected applicants should be able to begin work by late July or early August 2016.