Lefteris Danos

Lefteris Danos is a Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at Lancaster University, affiliated with Energy Lancaster. His research focuses on photovoltaics and solar energy conversion, with emphasis on light-harvesting and photon management structures for enhanced performance. He investigates ultra-thin film organic architectures to improve light absorption and solar energy utilisation, employing time-resolved spectroscopy to study photophysical processes and silicon surface chemistry to engineer interfaces for enhanced device performance.

Dr. Danos's primary research interests include Light-Harvesting, where he develops frameworks for efficient solar energy collection with focus on photosensitisation of silicon solar cells; Silicon Surface Chemistry, which explores direct covalent attachment of alkyl layers and chromophores onto silicon surfaces; and Luminescent Solar Concentrators, focusing on spectral management and light trapping in solar cells. His work aims to enhance solar cell performance while reducing material requirements and costs.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on improving solar energy conversion efficiency through molecular engineering of light-harvesting structures. His research spans fundamental photophysics of energy transfer processes to practical applications in photovoltaic technologies, with particular emphasis on silicon-based systems and spectral management techniques. The trajectory shows increasing sophistication in molecular design for photon management, with recent work addressing challenges in photosensitised silicon solar cells.

Dr. Danos welcomes PhD students interested in developing light-harvesting structures, photonic luminescent solar concentrators, photophysics of energy materials, and silicon photosensitisation. His research has been supported by funding bodies including the Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) through the Supergen Programme PV21, as acknowledged in his publications.

He is affiliated with Energy Lancaster, a cross-disciplinary research center focused on sustainable energy solutions. His laboratory work involves time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, and development of spectral management techniques to tailor the solar spectrum for integration with existing photovoltaic technologies. This research aims to enhance solar electricity performance while reducing costs, contributing to sustainable and affordable energy solutions.