The Duong

Dr The Duong serves as a Research Fellow at the School of Engineering, Australian National University (ANU), pioneering advanced photovoltaic technologies with emphasis on high-efficiency solar energy conversion systems. His research bridges fundamental materials science and practical renewable energy applications through innovative device engineering.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (highest distinction) from Oregon, United States
• Ph.D. from Australian National University with record 26.4% efficiency achievement for perovskite-silicon tandem solar cells

Dr Duong's research program spans four interconnected domains: perovskite solar cell optimization, perovskite-silicon tandem systems, solar-to-hydrogen conversion, and semiconductor gas sensors. His work integrates interface engineering, defect passivation, and novel material synthesis to overcome stability and efficiency barriers in next-generation photovoltaics. Recent breakthroughs include radiation-tolerant solar cells for space applications and fluorinated polymer additives enhancing device longevity, demonstrating exceptional versatility across terrestrial and extraterrestrial energy contexts.

Analysis of his 2023-2024 publications reveals a strategic focus on stability enhancement through molecular engineering (e.g., 4-methylphenethylammonium chloride additives) and interface modification (chemical crosslinking, bottom passivation). The research spans fundamental charge transport mechanisms to applied space photovoltaics, with strong industry relevance evidenced by 5537 total citations and consistent high-impact journal placements.

Scientific Awards:

• ACT Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability Best Ph.D. Thesis Award (2017)
• Innovation for Cool Earth Forum (ICEF) Top 10 Innovation for solar-to-hydrogen generation (2020)
• Two competitive Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP) Postdoc Fellowships

As Principal Investigator, Dr Duong secured significant funding including the 2021-2022 project 'Stable dopant-free carrier-selective contacts for silicon solar cells' and the 2020-2022 initiative 'Poly-silicon passivating contacts: structures, optoelectronic properties, and defect engineering'. His collaborative network spans 12 international institutions with 65 research outputs and a 37 h-index. Current work focuses on commercializing methylammonium-free perovskite tandems and scaling direct solar-hydrogen systems.

Research operates within ANU's photovoltaics facilities through the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP), leveraging partnerships with industry leaders like Intel (where he previously worked as Process/Equipment Engineer) and global academic consortia. Future directions include radiation-hardened space solar arrays and integrated solar-fuel production platforms.