This year’s Australian Academy of Science awards have recognised a pioneer in the development of next-generation solar cells. The annual awards celebrate the achievements of the country’s leading minds, from early-career researchers to those who have spent a lifetime contributing to science.
The Academy awarded the Nancy Millis Medal for Women in Science to Professor Anita Ho-Baillie for her work on multi-junction solar cells.
Ho-Baillie, the John Hooke Chair of Nanoscience at The University of Sydney’s School of Physics and Sydney Nano Institute, uses a range of semiconductor materials to absorb different sections of the solar spectrum within a single cell, significantly enhancing energy-conversion efficiency. She has achieved record efficiencies for multi-junction solar cells utilising metal-halide perovskites.
Ho-Baillie’s recent breakthrough addresses the issue of perovskite cell degradation in heat and humidity. This marks a pivotal step toward durable, commercially viable perovskite cells and solidifies her role in advancing this technology.
Ho-Baillie is also deeply committed to inspiring young people to get involved in the STEM field and science communication.
Academy of Science President Professor Chennupati Jagadish said the awards recognise the diverse contributions of researchers across Australia and the power of long-term commitment to science.
“From climate change to public health, Australian researchers are addressing the challenges our communities face every day,” he said.
“Their dedication to the pursuit of knowledge enriches our understanding of the world around us and sets a great example for generations to come.
“It is a tremendous privilege to be given the opportunity to honour their contributions to science.”
