Jürgen Hüpkes

Senior Scientific Researcher & Group Leader in Photovoltaics and Materials Science
Viersen, DE.

About

Jürgen Hüpkes is a highly accomplished Senior Scientific Researcher and Group Leader with over two decades of expertise in photovoltaics, materials science, and surface science. He excels in leading complex R&D projects, developing innovative thin-film solar cell technologies, and securing national and international research funding. His deep technical knowledge and proven ability to coordinate collaborative projects position him as a valuable asset for advanced research and development roles in renewable energy.

Work

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH
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Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter (Senior Scientific Researcher)

Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Leads advanced research in surface science for energy materials, coordinating national and international collaborative projects to drive innovation in solar cell technology.

Highlights

Spearheaded the application and coordination of numerous national collaborative projects focused on Transparent Conductive Oxide (TCO) development and light management in solar cells, engaging both research institutions and industrial partners.

Directed the application and project management for Jülich's participation in multiple European Union (EU) research initiatives, expanding international collaboration and funding opportunities.

Conducted cutting-edge research in Surface Science, contributing to fundamental understanding and advancements in energy materials and devices.

Collaborated with cross-functional teams to translate complex scientific findings into practical applications for next-generation solar technologies.

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Institut für Energieforschung 5 - Photovoltaik
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Leiter der Gruppe „Kontaktschichten für Solarzellen“ (Group Leader "Contact Layers for Solar Cells")

Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Led a specialized research group focused on developing advanced contact layers for solar cells, driving innovation in photovoltaic material science.

Highlights

Managed and directed a research group dedicated to "Contact Layers for Solar Cells," overseeing strategic planning, project execution, and team development for over 10 years.

Pioneered research and development efforts in critical components for solar cells, significantly contributing to the institute's reputation in photovoltaic innovation.

Fostered a collaborative research environment, guiding junior scientists and contributing to the intellectual growth of the team.

Contributed to numerous publications and presentations, disseminating key findings and establishing thought leadership in the field of solar cell contact layers.

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Institut für Photovoltaik
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Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter (Scientific Researcher)

Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Conducted specialized research on transparent conductive oxide layers, optimizing properties for enhanced performance in silicon thin-film solar cells.

Highlights

Developed transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layers with light-scattering properties, specifically engineered to improve the efficiency of silicon thin-film solar cells.

Utilized advanced material science techniques to characterize and optimize TCO performance, leading to improved solar energy conversion rates.

Collaborated with research teams to integrate novel TCO materials into solar cell prototypes, validating their effectiveness in real-world applications.

Contributed to project goals by delivering critical research insights and experimental data within tight deadlines, supporting overall project success.

Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Institut für Photovoltaik
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Diplomarbeit (Diploma Thesis Researcher)

Jülich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Conducted comprehensive research on nanostructured zinc oxide and silicon layers, focusing on their production and characterization for thin-film solar cell applications.

Highlights

Successfully produced and characterized nanostructured zinc oxide and silicon layers, demonstrating expertise in advanced material synthesis for photovoltaic applications.

Applied rigorous experimental methodologies to analyze material properties, contributing valuable data for thin-film solar cell development.

Authored a comprehensive diploma thesis detailing research findings and their implications, showcasing strong technical writing and analytical skills.

Collaborated with research mentors and peers, effectively integrating feedback to refine experimental approaches and enhance research outcomes.

Fraunhoferinstitut für Lasertechnik
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Nebentätigkeit (Part-time Researcher)

Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Contributed to the development of a picosecond laser for internal glass marking, applying specialized knowledge in laser technology.

Highlights

Assisted in the development of a picosecond laser, specifically designed for innovative internal glass marking applications.

Applied theoretical knowledge of laser physics to practical experimental setups, supporting project objectives.

Operated and maintained specialized laser equipment, ensuring precision and reliability in experimental procedures.

Collaborated with senior researchers on project tasks, gaining hands-on experience in advanced laser technology R&D.

RWTH Aachen University, III. Physikalisches Institut
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Übungsgruppen-Leiter (Exercise Group Leader)

Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Led exercise groups for physics students at a prestigious university, facilitating learning and problem-solving in complex physics concepts.

Highlights

Instructed and guided multiple exercise groups, enhancing student comprehension of advanced physics principles and problem-solving techniques.

Provided clear explanations and support, contributing to improved academic performance for numerous students.

Developed and delivered supplementary educational materials, ensuring effective learning outcomes for participants.

Managed classroom dynamics and facilitated productive group discussions, fostering a positive learning environment.

GTE mbH
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Nebentätigkeit (Part-time Production Assistant)

Viersen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Performed production of electromechanical circuits for gate drives, gaining early practical experience in electrical engineering and manufacturing.

Highlights

Manufactured electromechanical circuits for gate drive systems, ensuring quality and adherence to production standards.

Gained practical experience in assembly, testing, and quality control of electronic components.

Contributed to the efficient production workflow, supporting timely delivery of components.

Developed foundational skills in precision manufacturing and technical problem-solving within an industrial setting.

Education

RWTH Aachen University
Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

PhD

Physics

Grade: sehr gut

Courses

Dissertation: Untersuchung des reaktiven Sputterprozesses zur Herstellung von aluminiumdotierten Zinkoxid-Schichten für Silizium-Dünnschichtsolarzellen

RWTH Aachen University
Aachen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Diploma

Physics

Grade: gut

Bischöfliches Albertus-Magnus-Gymnasium Viersen Dülken
Viersen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Abitur (High School Diploma)

General Studies

Grade: 1,7

Volunteer

Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Geschäftsstelle Viersen
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Familienpfleger (Family Caregiver)

Viersen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany

Summary

Provided essential family care services during civil service, demonstrating strong interpersonal and support skills within a community setting.

Highlights

Delivered compassionate family care services, supporting individuals and families in need during a year of civil service.

Developed strong communication and empathy skills while assisting diverse populations with daily living and support tasks.

Managed responsibilities independently, demonstrating reliability and commitment to community welfare.

Contributed to the well-being of local families, fulfilling critical social support functions.

Languages

German

Native

English

Fluent

French

Proficient

Skills

Research & Development

Photovoltaics, Thin-Film Solar Cells, Surface Science, Materials Science, Reactive Sputtering, Transparent Conductive Oxides (TCOs), Light Management, Nanostructured Materials, Laser Technology, Picosecond Lasers, Electromechanical Circuits, Experimental Design, Data Analysis, Material Characterization, Process Optimization, Scientific Instrumentation, Laboratory Techniques, Prototyping.

Project Management & Leadership

Project Coordination, Project Leadership, Grant Writing, Funding Acquisition (National & EU Projects), Collaborative Research, Stakeholder Management, Group Leadership, Team Mentorship.

Technical Expertise

Physics, Semiconductor Physics, Optoelectronics, Vacuum Technology, Thin-Film Deposition, Material Synthesis.

Communication & Collaboration

Scientific Communication, Technical Writing, Presentation Skills, Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Teamwork.