In QDs the energy of an absorbed photon can via multiple exciton generation (MEG) be broken down into many electron-hole pairs thereby increasing the photocurrent. Alternatively, hot electron transfer can use the extra energy providing higher photovoltage. Both of these processes are capable of improving the solar cell efficiency beyond the Shockley-Queisser limit. In order to make use of the effects, the processes have to be followed by efficient charge stabilization with minimal back recombination. It is also vital to efficiently fill the holes left in QDs after electron injection. The purpose of the current project is to carry out a thorough study of the dynamic processes in the material to optimize the key components of QD solar cells (QDSC).
Faculty involved: Prof. Suman Kalyan Pal

We study the structure and ionization/scattering dynamics of atomic systems using theoretical and computational methods. These atomic systems can be simple atoms or exotic systems such as atoms trapped in a fullerene (endohedral systems) or it can be a collection of atoms together (clusters). We explore these systems mainly with a fundamental point of view to get a rigorous understanding of the electron-electron interactions, relativistic effects and also to know how the properties of atomic systems get modified by the presence of an external cage. We also study the dynamics of ionization in the time domain (atto-second spectroscopy) to get deeper insights to the ionization process. The photoelectron/scattered electrons are the information carriers of the target. By studying them systematically, we can extract all the required information. A deep knowledge on ionization and scattering processes play an important role in nano-science, developing quantum technologies, plasmonics and xuv lithography etc.
Faculty involved: Hari Varma

At ultra-low, nano-Kelvin temperatures, dilute atomic gases form Bose–Einstein condensates, acquiring macroscopic quantum properties that provide a direct window into fundamental quantum physics. These systems not only serve as pristine platforms for simulating condensed matter phenomena but also hold promise for the development of novel quantum technologies. Dr. Arko Roy’s research focuses on the equilibrium and out-of-equilibrium properties of spinor Bose–Einstein condensates, paying special attention to the roles of quantum and thermal fluctuations at finite temperatures. A central aspect of his work also lies in the emerging field of quantum thermodynamics, where classical thermodynamic concepts are extended and redefined in quantum regimes. Of particular interest is the design and theoretical modeling of miniature quantum heat engines and cooling devices using ultracold atoms in quantum-gas microscopes. Such efforts not only advance our understanding of thermodynamics in the quantum domain but also open possibilities for practical quantum machines capable of cooling atomic gases beyond conventional evaporative and laser techniques. Together, these studies push the boundaries of both fundamental physics and applications in next-generation quantum technologies.
Faculty involved: Dr. Arko Roy