My current research interests lie in the field of solar energy conversion – using sunlight to generate electricity or to produce useful fuels to replace oil.  I am particularly interested in the way that chemistry can contribute to addressing the problem of global climate change by developing viable alternatives to fossil fuels.  In recent years, my group has worked extensively on dye-sensitized solar cells, devices that mimic the processes taking place in photosynthesis. Since transferring to a part-time post, I have turned my attention to trying to develop new solar cells that are based on non-toxic earth-abundant materials.  I currently work with 4 other universities on a large EPSRC-funded project called PVTeam – PhotoVoltaic Technology based on Earth Abundant Materials.  In addition, I have an interest in new types of solar cells based on compounds called lead halide perovskites, or simply perovskites for short.  These have had a huge impact because they are much more efficient than most other solar cells and are easy to make.  Unfortunately, so far, they are not stable enough to use practically. I collaborate with several European research centres, including the Helmholtz Centre, Berlin, the Ludwig-Maximillian Universität, München and the Technische Universität Darmstadt. I am also external advisor for three very large projects in Germany: the P2X Kopernikus project, the Cluster of Excellence Nanosystems Initiative Munich (NIM) and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft project SPP1613 on light-driven hydrogen generation from water.

Please note that as Emeritus Professor, Professor Peter is  does not supervise PhD students or host postdoctoral researchers and academic visitors.