Jeffrey Christians

Dr. Jeffrey Christians serves as an Associate Professor of Engineering at Hope College, specializing in chemical engineering with a focus on photovoltaic materials and solar cell technology. He joined the Hope College faculty in 2018 after completing his postdoctoral research at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

His educational background includes:

• Postdoctoral researcher, National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 2015–2018
• Ph.D., chemical and biomolecular engineering, University of Notre Dame, 2015
• B.S., engineering with chemical emphasis, chemistry, Calvin College, 2010

Christians' research primarily focuses on developing semiconductor materials for solar cells through simple printing and coating methods, similar to those used in photographic film production, which could dramatically reduce manufacturing costs. His work extends to non-traditional applications of solar cells, particularly color-switching solar cells designed for integration into building facades. His research lab at Hope College actively engages undergraduate students in engineering, chemistry, and physics in sustainable energy materials research.

His publication record demonstrates a consistent focus on perovskite solar cell technology, with particular emphasis on material stability, structural tunability, and performance optimization. His work spans fundamental materials science to practical applications, with several publications appearing in high-impact journals including Nature Energy, ACS Energy Letters, and Energy and Environmental Science.

Among his notable recognitions:

• Towsley Research Scholar, Hope College (2021–25)
• NREL Highest Impact Publication Award (2019)
• EERE Postdoctoral Research Award from the Department of Energy (2016)
• Research Seed Grant from the Michigan Space Grant Consortium (2020)

Christians maintains an active research program through the Christians Research Lab, which focuses on designing and improving materials for sustainable energy applications, particularly as photovoltaic absorbers. His work connects to broader energy challenges identified by Nobel Laureate Richard Smalley as humanity's biggest challenge over the next 50 years. The lab actively recruits Hope College students from engineering, chemistry, and physics backgrounds for research opportunities.

His research lab operates from the A. Paul Schaap Science Center at Hope College, with strong connections to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory where he completed his postdoctoral training.