معرفی
Professor Michael Walls is a Professor of Photovoltaics for Power Systems at Loughborough University, leading research in thin film photovoltaics through the Centre for Renewable Energy Systems Technology (CREST). He holds a BSc and PhD, and has extensive industry experience, including roles as Technical Director and Managing Director at VG Instruments plc, where he pioneered Focused Ion Beam (FIB) technology. He is Director of the EPSRC Supergen Solar Hub and member of key energy committees like the DECC UK PV Strategy Group. His research focuses on thin film materials, solar cell efficiency, and anti-reflection coatings.
- Education: BSc, PhD
- Professional Roles: IEEE Photovoltaics Specialist Conference Advisory Board, IOP Committees
Research interests include CdTe and CdSeTe/CdTe solar cells, material deposition techniques, and durability of solar module coatings. Key achievements include over 250 publications, 3 books, 21 patents, and Queen’s Awards for Export and Technological Achievement. His work on anti-soiling coatings and buffer layer optimization has advanced solar panel efficiency and durability.
- Scientific Awards: Queen’s Award for Export Achievement (1987), Queen’s Award for Technological Achievement (1996)
Advising roles include leadership in Supergen Solar Hub and DECC’s Innovation Task Force. He has founded multiple companies, including Applied Vision Ltd (acquired by BOC) and Applied Thermal Control Ltd. Current research explores selenium passivation in CdTe solar cells and novel anti-reflective coatings for improved energy conversion.
Labs/Teams: CREST, collaborating with industry partners on thin film technologies and solar system integration.
