Everyone knows that climate change and the cost/availability of fossil fuel are going to change the way that mankind produces and uses energy. Organic solar cells are seen as a lead "next generation" solar cell technology and will undoubtedly have a significant role in the future energy mix. In the Centre for Organic Photonics and Electronics (COPE) we design and synthesise new materials for photon harvesting in organic solar cells. We also fabricate and test prototype devices in state-of-the-art clean room facilities. These efforts are underpinned by fundamental experimental and theoretical studies of how solar cells work. In 2009 we are offering a number of projects across all these facets of solar cell technology. In particular, we would like to model the molecules being developed within the centre for use in organic solar cells computationally and quantum mechanically. The projects would be supervised by Ben Powell but would involve close collaboration with Paul Meredith (Physics) and Paul Burn (Chemistry). You will work with physicists and chemists within a strong existing team. Projects would suit physicists, chemists or engineers with theoretical backgrounds and an interest in electronic or optoelectronic devices.