Michael Deceglie

Michael Deceglie

U.S. Fulbright Postgraduate Scholar

Media Profile

“Political borders do not confine the effects of environmental interactions and they should not be barriers to improving the environment. I see sustainability as a global issue and as a physicist; I will dedicate my research into renewable energy sources that will improve the relationship between humans and the environment.”

Michael Deceglie is one of fourteen Americans to be granted a Fulbright Postgraduate Award in 2006. He will undertake research on the nanocrystal / conducting polymer and dye-sensitized photovoltaic platforms with the Soft Condensed Matter Physics Group at the University of Queensland and undertake a Masters of Philosophy in Physics.

Michael is a graduate of Dickinson College, specialising in physics and mathematics. During his year in Australia Michael will work with Dr Paul Meredith focusing on improving the charge generation and separation, stability, and overall efficiency of the systems as part of a transnational effort to develop renewable energy sources.

Solar energy is an important renewable energy option. Solar cells fabricated from semi-conducting polymers have been considered as an alternative to silicon-based platforms due to their low cost and mechanical flexibility. However, their efficiency suffers from poor electron-hole separation and limited electron mobility. Michael’s proposed study will look to solve this problem by introducing an electron acceptor in the form of semi-conductor nanocrystals throughout a conducting polymer. Michael will also aid in the testing of new dye molecules in dye-sensitized solar cells.

“My research will focus on improving the understanding of charge generation and separation in the system. The work will be exemplary of the transnational effort that I believe is necessary to develop renewable energy sources and secure a sustainable future.”

The University of Queensland’s Soft Condensed Matter Physics Group represents one of only three in the world (the others being at Cambridge and Berkley) to have successfully demonstrated a nanocrystal / conducting polymer photovoltaic cell.

“The move toward a sustainable environment requires more that just research and development. Beyond my research I will enrol for a committed position with Conservation Volunteers of Australia (CVA) to work on local conservation projects. The opportunity to work with CVA is invaluable for involvement at the local level to the strengthening of community and a build a sense of shared responsibility for the health of the environment.”