SolarWorld challenges U.S. scientists to vie for SolarWorld Junior Einstein Award

Young researchers in solar-related fields can apply for prize until April 24, 2015

HILLSBORO, Ore., Feb. 12, 2015 – SolarWorld, the largest U.S. solar manufacturer for 40 years, today challenged young American scientists to seek recognition for their photovoltaic-related research at academic institutions in the United States, where the main contemporary solar technologies and industries were pioneered. The SolarWorld Junior Einstein Award, to be awarded for the 10th time this year, is the oldest, most prestigious prize for young scientists' research related to the photovoltaic industry. Yet no American so far has won the prize.


The honor offers a cash prize, opens doors for young scientists and provides a trip to an award ceremony in Germany. The recognition also draws credit to the academic institutions where students have undertaken research related to PV technology, nanotechnology, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, renewable energy, engineering, chemistry, physics, process engineering or similarly related areas of science. A student's scientific thesis must have been written between June 2014 and April 2015. The deadline for applications is April 24.

"As mainstream solar-technology adoption spreads across the U.S. market, we must encourage young scientists by rewarding their research and ideas to develop innovations that will advance the technology for generations to come," said Mukesh Dulani, U.S. president of SolarWorld.

In particular, Dulani said, he wanted to encourage young U.S. researchers to apply in hopes that one might become the first American to win.

Past winners have appreciated the prize's both tangible and intangible benefits.

"It's a great feeling when the work in which you have invested so much is recognized from the outside and your thesis is selected for a renowned international research prize," says Stefan Braun from the University of Konstanz, winner of the SolarWorld Junior Einstein Award 2014. "That's why the prize ceremony was such a special moment for me. It also gave me an opportunity to make international contacts and meet interesting people."

This year, the prize once again will be presented at a gala event in conjunction with the solar trade show Intersolar from June 10 to 12 in Munich, Germany.

About SolarWorld REAL VALUE: SolarWorld manufactures and sells high-tech solar power solutions and in doing so contributes to a cleaner energy supply worldwide. As the largest solar producer in the United States and Europe, SolarWorld employs about 3,400 people and carries out production in Hillsboro, Ore., and Freiberg and Arnstadt, Germany. From the raw material silicon to solar wafers, cells and panels, SolarWorld manages all stages of production ‒ including its own research and development. The company maintains high social standards at all locations across the globe and is committed to resource- and energy-efficient production. Headquartered in Bonn, Germany, SolarWorld was founded in 1998 and its stock has been publicly traded since 1999. Connect with SolarWorld on Facebook, Twitter and www.solarworld.com.

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