Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology (KFUEIT) is offering exciting research opportunities for PhD and MS students under an HEC-funded project. The project, titled “Molecular Designing of Non-Fullerene Small Acceptors via End-Groups Redistribution for Organic Solar Cells,” aims to advance renewable energy technologies. Selected candidates will work under the supervision of Dr. Muhammad Khalid, Principal Investigator, at the Institute of Chemistry, KFUEIT.
Job Information
| Posting Date | 29 March, 2025 |
| Industry Type | Khwaja Fareed University Of Engineering & Information Technology |
| Application Deadline | 14 April, 2025 |
| Required Education | Mphil | Phd | MS |
| Employment Category | Full Time |
| Vacancy Location: | Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan |
Available Positions & Stipend Details
| Position | No. of Seats | Monthly Stipend |
| PhD Student | 01 | Rs. 80,000/- |
| MS Student | 01 | Rs. 40,000/- |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in a PhD or MS program at KFUEIT.
- Have a background in Chemistry, Physics, Material Science, or Nanotechnology.
- Demonstrate strong research aptitude.
Project Duration & Contract Terms
- Initial Contract: 8 months (extendable based on project duration and funding).
- Performance-Based Continuation: The Principal Investigator may terminate the contract for unsatisfactory performance.
- Stipend Disbursement: As per HEC-approved project guidelines.
Walk-in Interview Details
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Venue: Institute of Chemistry, Basic Sciences & Humanities Building, KFUEIT, Rahim Yar Khan.
- Required Documents: CV, attested copies of academic credentials, and research experience (if any).
- Note: No TA/DA will be provided for the interview.
How to Apply?
Interested candidates must:
- Prepare their CV and attested documents.
- Attend the walk-in interview on the specified date.
- Bring original documents for verification.
Key Responsibilities of Selected Candidates
- Conduct advanced research on organic solar cells.
- Assist in data analysis, experiments, and publications.
- Collaborate with the research team under Dr. Muhammad Khalid’s supervision.
Why Join This Project?
- Hands-on experience in cutting-edge renewable energy research.
- Competitive stipend (Rs. 40,000–80,000/month).
- Opportunity to contribute to HEC-funded scientific advancements.
- Potential for extended research collaboration.
Research Focus: Organic Solar Cell Innovation
- Cutting-Edge Study: This project specifically targets non-fullerene acceptors in organic photovoltaics, a breakthrough area in renewable energy.
- Global Relevance: The research contributes to worldwide efforts in developing cost-effective, high-efficiency solar cells, aligning with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).
Selected candidates will work on:
- Molecular design simulations
- Material synthesis and characterization
- Device fabrication and testing
Official Job Announcement
Facilities & Resources at KFUEIT
KFUEIT’s Institute of Chemistry provides state-of-the-art labs equipped with:
- Spectroscopy tools (FTIR, UV-Vis)
- Electrochemical workstations
- Glovebox systems for device fabrication
The university also offers:
- Access to HEC Digital Library for literature review
- Collaboration opportunities with national and international researchers
Career Prospects After Project Completion
This experience opens doors to:
- PhD scholarships abroad (especially in materials science)
- Research positions in energy sector (e.g., NREL, DESY)
- Academic careers as lab instructors or lecturers
Industry Demand:
With growing focus on green energy, candidates gain an edge in solar cell manufacturing firms like Tesla Energy or local startups such as Pakistani Renewable Energy Solutions.
Project Timeline and Key Milestones
- Phase 1 (Months 1-3): Literature review and methodology development
- Phase 2 (Months 4-6): Material synthesis and characterization
- Phase 3 (Months 7-8): Device fabrication and preliminary testing
- Extension Period: Data analysis and paper writing (if project continues)
This structured timeline helps candidates understand the research workflow and expected deliverables at each stage. The project’s modular design allows for flexible adjustments based on initial findings.
Essential Skills for Successful Candidates
The ideal candidate should possess:
- Strong background in organic chemistry or material science
- Experience with spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, UV-Vis)
- Basic knowledge of solar cell physics
- Proficiency in scientific writing and data analysis
Bonus Qualifications:
- Prior experience with DFT calculations or molecular modeling
- Familiarity with Schlenk line techniques
- Publications in relevant fields (for PhD candidates)
Financial Benefits and Additional Support
Selected researchers will receive:
- Monthly stipend (Rs. 40,000 for MS, Rs. 80,000 for PhD)
- Access to university research funds for conference participation
- Publication fee coverage for project-related papers
The university also provides:
- Shared workspace in modern research labs
- Subsidized accommodation for outstation candidates
- Travel grants for national symposiums
Publication and Intellectual Property Rights
All project-related publications will:
- Follow HEC’s authorship guidelines
- Acknowledge KFUEIT and HEC funding
- Be submitted to Q1/Q2 journals
Regarding intellectual property:
- Primary rights remain with KFUEIT and HEC
- Researchers may patent derivative inventions through university channels
- Commercialization profits will be shared as per HEC policy
Alternative Application Process for Remote Candidates
For exceptional candidates unable to attend in person:
- Submit CV and research statement via email to PI by April 10
- Selected candidates will undergo online interview on April 12
- Finalists must submit notarized documents within 3 days post-selection
Note: In-person candidates will be given preference. Remote applications are considered only for:
- Candidates with published work in relevant fields
- Those facing documented travel constraints
- International KFUEIT students currently abroad
Collaboration Opportunities with Industry Partners
This project offers direct collaboration with:
- National Solar Energy Research Center for device testing
- Pakistani Materials Research Society for knowledge exchange
- International research groups in Germany and China
Selected candidates will gain:
- Industry exposure through joint workshops
- Networking opportunities at annual renewable energy conferences
- Potential for internship placements with partner organizations
Daily Work Routine and Research Environment
Typical Research Day Includes:
- Morning lab sessions (9AM-12PM) for experiments
- Afternoon data analysis and literature review (2PM-5PM)
- Weekly group meetings every Friday
Campus Facilities Available:
- 24/7 access to chemistry research labs
- High-performance computing cluster for simulations
- Dedicated workspace in the new Science Complex
Selection Criteria and Evaluation Process
The selection committee will assess candidates based on:
- Academic record (60% weightage)
- Research potential (30% weightage)
- Interview performance (10% weightage)
Evaluation Timeline:
- Initial screening: April 15-17, 2025
- Final decisions: April 20, 2025
- Orientation for selected candidates: April 25, 2025
Post-Project Support and Alumni Network
After project completion, researchers receive:
- Career counseling from KFUEIT placement cell
- Continuing access to university research facilities
- Invitations to annual alumni research symposiums
Notable Alumni Achievements:
- 3 former researchers now pursuing postdocs in Europe
- 5 alumni working in Pakistan’s solar energy sector
- 2 startup founders in renewable energy field
COVID-19 Safety Protocols for Research Work
KFUEIT maintains strict safety measures:
- Lab occupancy limits (maximum 4 researchers at once)
- Mandatory PPE (masks, gloves, lab coats)
- Regular sanitization of workspaces
Contingency Plans:
- Hybrid work model if needed (50% lab, 50% remote)
- Extended project timelines for health-related absences
- Virtual collaboration tools for team communication
Important Notes for Applicants
- Walk-in interviews are mandatory: No online applications will be considered for in-person candidates
- Strict deadline adherence: Late arrivals won’t be accommodated on interview day
- Bring original + 3 attested copies of all documents including CNIC, degrees, and domicile
- No application fee: Beware of scams asking for payment to process your application
Contact Information
- Email: chemistry.department@kfueit.edu.pk
- Phone: +92-68-923431 (Office), 0304-5499062 (Project PI)
- Address: Institute of Chemistry, Basic Sciences Building, KFUEIT, Abu Dhabi Road, Rahim Yar Khan
Conclusion
This HEC-funded research opportunity at KFUEIT represents a golden chance for MS and PhD students to work on cutting-edge renewable energy technology while receiving competitive financial support. The project’s focus on organic solar cells positions participants at the forefront of sustainable energy research, with potential for significant academic and professional growth.
FAQs
Can I apply if my degree is in Chemical Engineering rather than Chemistry?
Yes, related engineering disciplines may be considered if you demonstrate relevant coursework/research experience.
Is there any possibility of extending the contract beyond 8 months?
Yes, extensions are possible depending on project progress and available funding, up to the maximum project duration.
What should I wear for the walk-in interview?
Business casual attire is recommended. Lab coats will be provided if practical tests are required.
Will there be any written test during the selection process?
No, selection will be based on document verification and interview performance only.
