Greg Barber

Greg Barber is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry in the Division of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Penn State Altoona, Pennsylvania State University, with his office located at the University Park campus in the Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building. His research is affiliated with the Integrated Energy Systems theme and focuses on advanced solar energy conversion technologies through photonics and nanomaterials engineering.

Dr. Barber's research program centers on photonic crystals, surface plasmons, and plasmonic nanostructures to enhance light absorption in solar cells. He specializes in dye-sensitized solar cells, photonic crystal architectures, silicon photovoltaics, and photoelectrochemical systems for water splitting. His work investigates light concentration techniques, spectrum management, and nanostructured materials like TiO₂ nanorods to improve solar energy harvesting efficiency through novel optical designs and material interfaces.

Analysis of his publication record reveals consistent innovation in leveraging wave optics for solar applications, including metallic grating-photonic crystal architectures for planar light concentration, spectrum splitter optimization, and multi-surface-plasmon-polariton wave excitation. His interdisciplinary approach bridges chemistry, materials science, and electrical engineering to develop solutions for renewable energy challenges, with significant contributions to understanding electron dynamics in water-splitting systems and nanostructured light management.