Nick Rolston
Featured mentor, FURI
Assistant Professor, School of Electrical, Computer and Energy Engineering
Nick Rolston is an Assistant Professor in the School of Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering at Arizona State University and a Graduate Faculty in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, and Physics. He received his B.S. in Physics and Mathematics from the University of Iowa and his Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University for his work on the characterization, design, and fabrication of rapid open-air processed thin-film perovskite photovoltaic devices, after which he spent a year as a postdoctoral researcher in Materials Science and Engineering. His research group at ASU focuses on understanding fundamental mechanical and material properties in thin-film energy devices on length scales from angstroms to meters and developing scalable, open-air deposition methods to produce robust, low-cost solutions toward the goal of manufacturing the next generation of renewable energy technology.
Ready to mentor
Our group's research goals are to develop next-generation energy and semiconductor technologies and to ensure that they are fit for manufacturability and durability. We study the connection between material degradation in printable thin-film energy and semiconductor materials and devices with the evolution of mechanical and environmental stress. We leverage scalable, open-air deposition methods to fabricate robust devices toward the goal of manufacturing. We use thin-film metrologies along with newly developed and custom-built equipment to characterize material properties and reliability on length scales from angstroms to meters. Our focus is to develop the next-generation of photovoltaics, battery, and semiconductor technology using the paradigm of design for reliability.
Fall 2024
Sajia Afrin
Materials science and engineering
Use of Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy to Quantify Thermal Re-distribution of Iodine and Lead in Metal Halide Perovskite Films
Studying the ionic behavior of perovskite materials will help us to understand its degradation process and design for better lifetime.
Program: Guest Researcher
Avijit Jutla
Electrical engineering
Open-Air Plasma Treatment for Sintering and Curing of Lithium-based Perovskite Films
Studying how plasma treatment can improve the production of solid electrolytes will facilitate development of safer and better batteries.
Program: FURI
Daniel Eduardo Abreu
Electrical engineering
Quantifying Elemental Diffusion Within Semiconducting Diodes Due to Thermal Stresses
This research will help find a new way to interpret and understand material diffusion throughout semiconductor devices.
Program: FURI
Clara Chaves Azevedo
Civil engineering (sustainable engineering)
Tin-Based Perovskites Nontoxic Alternative for Solar Energy Production
Exploring low-toxicity ink-based perovskites for solar energy in buildings can advance sustainability while reducing environmental impact.
Program: FURI
Patricio Solana Bustamante
Electrical engineering
Comparing Lithium and Sodium-Ion Battery Degradation Using Non-Destructive X-Ray Scans
The objective of this research is to understand the behavior of lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries at low temperatures through metrics like capacity.
Program: FURI
Gursparsh Singh Sodhi
Computer science
Simulating Battery Degradation with PyBaMM for Efficient Data Generation
Using PyBaMM to simulate battery behavior saves time and money, enabling better battery designs.
Program: FURI
Mohammed Shaan Mubeen Nadaf
Aerospace engineering
A Multi-Pronged Approach to Understanding Environmental Stability Challenges in Perovskite Photovoltaics
Exploring the effects of UV radiation on perovskite photovoltaics will help determine their potential use in space applications.
Program: FURI
Shatakshi Iksha
Computer systems engineering
Evaluating the Flexibility and Durability of MAPbI3 Perovskite Films on Plastic Substrates with Natural Polymer Additives
Enhancing the morphology and durability of MAPbI3 perovskite films on flexible substrates can lead to more robust and scalable perovskite solar cells.
Program: FURI
Spring 2025
Luca Sergio Felicioli
Chemical engineering
Optimizing the Laser Scribing Process for Carbon-coated Perovskite Solar Modules
Using earth-abundant carbon materials for the electrodes of perovskite solar modules can provide insight into more sustainable solar panels.
Program: FURI
Bernardo De Oliveira Geissmann
Mechanical engineering
From Lab to Industry: Starch as a Green Stabilizer for Cost-Effective Perovskite Solar Cells
We are exploring additives like starch to make perovskite solar cells more stable, affordable, and scalable for a greener future.
Program: FURI
Hithesh Rai Purushothama
Electrical engineering
From Powders to Power: Blade-Coated CsPbX₃ Films for Efficient Alphavoltaic and Optoelectronics Applications
Scalable blade-coated CsPbX₃ films enable low-cost ambient-processed perovskites for alphavoltaic and optoelectronic devices.
Program: Guest Researcher
Patricio Solana Bustamante
Electrical engineering
Comparing Lithium- and Sodium-ion Battery Degradation at Extreme Temperatures
The objective of this research is to understand the behavior and performance of lithium- and sodium-ion batteries at extreme temperatures.
Program: Guest Researcher
Aayush Swami
Computer science
Predicting the Health of Lithium-ion Batteries Using Machine Learning
This study enhances battery lifespan predictions using ML, improving efficiency and sustainability in energy storage applications.
Program: FURI
Shatakshi Iksha
Computer systems engineering
Investigating the Mechanical Stability and Photoluminescence Behavior of MAPbI₃ Perovskite Films with Natural Polymer Additives
Biopolymer additives enhance mechanical stability of MAPbI₃ perovskite films, improving durability and performance in flexible solar cells.
Program: GCSP research stipend
Mollee Kahan
Electrical engineering
Manufacturing High-Quality Crystalline CsPbBr3 Perovskite Photoactive Films in Open Air
Studying the manufacturing of CsPbBr3 perovskite thin-film solar cells will provide a cheaper source of solar energy.
Program: FURI
Avijit Jutla
Electrical engineering
Improving Manufacturability of LiPON for Use in Solid-State Batteries Through Rapid Open-Air Sintering
Studying how novel heating techniques improve solid-state electrolyte production will facilitate development of safer and cheaper batteries.
Program: FURI
Ahmed Badreldin Nasr
Electrical engineering
Characterizing Radiation-Induced Ion Defects in Perovskite Semiconductors for Self-Healing in Space Electronics
This research on characterizing radiation-induced defects in perovskites allows for better understanding of their behaviors after exposure.
Program: FURI
Clara Chaves Azevedo
Civil engineering (sustainable engineering)
Nontoxic Material Design Using Tin-based Perovskites for Sustainable Energy Production
Advancing the uniformity and efficiency of lead-free perovskites for the development of solar windows.
Program: GCSP research stipend
Sakshi Ritesh Katargamwala
Computer science
Machine Vision for Identifying Defects in Perovskite Thin Films
Machine vision improves perovskite film defect detection, making it easier to manufacture solar cells for stronger, longer-lasting panels.
Program: FURI
Eduardo Beltran
Aerospace engineering
Structural Characterization of Perovskite Semiconductors’ “Self-Healing” Under Simulated Space Conditions
Characterizing the structural properties of perovskites that have experienced irradiation allows understanding of their "self-healing."
Program: FURI
David Alberto Reyes
Mechanical engineering
Producing Printable Na-based Solid-state Electrolyte Thin Using Open-air Processing
This research enables scalable, cost-effective sodium-based solid electrolytes, advancing sustainable batteries & reducing lithium reliance.
Program: FURI
Aditya Sharad Kakadia
Electrical engineering
Synthesis and Characterization of Lithium‐Rich Anti‐Perovskites for Next‐Generation Solid‐State Batteries
This research introduces a rapid, printable process for producing low‐cost anti‐perovskite materials.
Program: FURI
Octavio Tuxtla Garcia
Electrical engineering
Characterization of Perovskite Semiconductors Under Radiation Exposure
Characterizing perovskite composition under simulated space radiation enhances understanding of their performance and space applications.
Program: FURI
Wells Bruce Marcus
Mechanical engineering
Increasing Perovskite Mechanical Stability and Tunability Using 2D Perovskites
By studying the mechanical adhesion and tunability of 2D perovskite optoelectronic properties, stability improvements are achieved.
Program: FURI
Dibo Cai
Electrical engineering
Battery Health Prediction of Lithium-ion Batteries From Impedance Spectroscopy Using Machine Learning
Utilizing Gaussian models to predict battery health from rapid measurements enables accurate degradation tracking to extend battery life.
Program: FURI
Mia E. Kineyko
Chemical engineering
Open-Air Spray Coating of Ultrathin Aluminum Oxide for Stable Semiconductor Packaging
Studying the processability of a thin film aluminum oxide barrier coating to prevent water vapor penetration using an open-air spray coater.
Program: FURI
Erin Diadem Buyacao Mongen
Chemical engineering
Designing Water-Stable Halide Perovskites for Underwater Photovoltaic Solar Cells
Enhancing the stability of perovskite solar cells underwater enables naval or marine applications to convert solar energy into electricity.
Program: FURI
Summer 2024
Gursparsh Singh Sodhi
Computer science
Simulating Battery Degradation with PyBaMM for Efficient Data Generation
Using PyBaMM to simulate battery behavior saves time and money, enabling better battery designs.
Program: FURI
Mohammed Shaan Mubeen Nadaf
Aerospace engineering
A Multi-Pronged Approach to Understanding Environmental Stability Challenges in Perovskite Photovoltaics
Exploring the effects of UV radiation on perovskite photovoltaics will help determine their potential use in space applications.
Program: FURI
Shatakshi Iksha
Computer systems engineering
Evaluating the Flexibility and Durability of MAPbI3 Perovskite Films on Plastic Substrates with Natural Polymer Additives
Enhancing the morphology and durability of MAPbI3 perovskite films on flexible substrates can lead to more robust and scalable perovskite solar cells.
Program: FURI
Rayna Hylden
Materials science and engineering
Improving Perovskite Solar Cell Stability through Additives and Quenching
Improving the stability of perovskite solar cells provides greater commercial potential for this cost effective renewable energy source.
Program: FURI
Spring 2024
Alexandra Tatiana McWatters
Mechanical engineering
Lithium-Ion Battery Degradation and State of Health Evaluation for Second-Life Applications
Studying battery cycling, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and capacity changes at low temperatures to understand battery degradation.
Program: FURI
Nithin Jakrebet
Computer science
Lithium-ion Battery Degradation Machine Learning Model
Leveraging impedance data from lithium-ion batteries to create a machine learning model that can accurately predict battery state of health.
Program: FURI
Eduardo Beltran
Aerospace engineering
Structural Characterization of Aged Perovskite Films
Uncovering the structure property relationship of perovskite solar cell materials using X-ray diffraction and crystallinity measurements.
Program: FURI
David Machbitz
Mechanical engineering
Finite-element Thermomechanical Characterization of Thin Film Perovskites for Solar Energy Applications
A finite-element thermomechanical model of perovskite-silicon tandem modules will facilitate innovations in solar panel design and materials.
Program: FURI
Daniel Eduardo Abreu
Electrical engineering
Measuring Material Diffusion And Performance Changes in Semiconductor Diodes
Studying and modeling the correlation between the performance of semiconductor diodes and defects after aging.
Program: FURI
Sanskar Srivastava
Computer science
Identifying Defects in Perovskite Using Machine Vision
Machine vision improves defect identification in perovskite, boosting solar technology toward efficient, sustainable energy solutions.
Program: FURI
Berrak Gokce
Mechanical engineering
2-Dimensional Perovskite Photovoltaics Produced with Organic Additives
Using organic additives in perovskite inks to improve the reliability of perovskite solar cells can lead to more efficient solar panels.
Program: GCSP research stipend
Sajia Afrin
Materials science and engineering
Understanding Effect of Ion Migration Through Correlating Chemical and Ionic Properties in Halide Perovskites
Studying the ionic behavior of perovskite solar cells will help to improve its durability and successful commercialization in the near future.
Program: MORE
Daniel Hur
Electrical engineering
Producing Printable LiPON Based Solid-State Electrolyte Thin Film Using Open-Air Processing
Thin film lithium phosphorus oxynitride electrolyte is a compelling choice for next-generation battery technologies in terms of enhanced safety and energy density.
Program: FURI
Grace Cameron Salazar
Chemical engineering
Processing and Laser Scribing Flexible Perovskite Solar Modules for Lunar Application
The formation of a low-cost, lightweight and flexible solar module will innovate the future of space missions.
Program: FURI
Patricio Solana Bustamante
Electrical engineering
Characterization of Battery Stability Through Impedance Characterization for Sodium Ion Batteries
Studying battery degradation will help determine how sodium ion batteries can be re-purposed for second-life applications using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
Program: FURI
Benjamin Tung
Electrical engineering
Developing More Stable and Efficient FAPbI3-based Perovskites
Improving performance and stability of formamidiniun lead iodide based perovskites to manufacture a low-cost and stable alternative to silicon solar panels.
Program: FURI
Adam Westmoreland
Chemical engineering
Processing and Characterizing Flexible Perovskite Solar Modules for Lunar Applications
Innovating flexible perovskite solar modules will revolutionize space missions, advancing renewable energy for sustainable exploration.
Program: FURI
Clara Chaves Azevedo
Civil engineering (sustainable engineering)
Nontoxic Material Design Using Tin-based Perovskites for Sustainable Energy Production
Studying ink-based perovskite materials with reduced toxicity to explore the opportunity to gather energy from the sun on buildings.
Program: FURI
Fall 2023
Hanson Nguyen
Electrical engineering
Scaling of All-Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells through Improved Thermomechanical and Optoelectrical Stability
Engineering stability in all-inorganic perovskites will enhance the mechanical and optoelectrical properties for improved scalability.
Program: GCSP research stipend, Outstanding Student Researcher
Hanson Nguyen
Electrical engineering
Scaling of All-Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells through Improved Thermomechanical and Optoelectrical Stability
Engineering stability in all-inorganic perovskites will enhance the mechanical and optoelectrical properties for improved scalability.
Program: FURI
Alexandra Tatiana McWatters
Mechanical engineering
Lithium-Ion Battery Degradation and State of Health Evaluation for Second-Life Applications
Understanding the degradation of lithium-ion batteries and assessing their state of health is a fundamental step in identifying potential applications for their reuse.
Program: FURI
Adianne Alamban
Materials science and engineering
Investigating the Stability Effects of Polyvinylpyrrolidone Additive on 2D Perovskite Solar Materials
Enhancing the stability of hybrid 2D semitransparent perovskites will help make harnessing energy through solar windows a reality.
Program: FURI
Hithesh Rai Purushothama
Electrical engineering
Revolutionizing Formaldehyde Lead Halide Perovskite Solar Cells with Additive-Mediated Ion Migration Control
Mitigating ion migration in Formamidinium lead iodide perovskite cells paves the way for cost-effective, reliable solar energy.
Program: FURI
Carsen Cartledge
Materials science and engineering
Implications of Open-Air Manufacturing of Robust Perovskite Thin Films Enabled by Food Industry Additive
Engineering scalable and robust halide perovskite solar materials by adding gellan gum, a food industry additive, will advance renewable energy.
Program: FURI
Jacob Burrows
Electrical engineering
Low-Temperature Reduction of Metal Oxide Semiconductors Using Open-Air Plasma
Open-air plasma technology improves semiconductor device performance and longevity by reducing metal oxidation in printed circuit boards.
Program: FURI
Gabriel Adams
Electrical engineering
Characterizing Anti-Perovskite Films for Solid-State Electrolytes in Batteries
Improving upon new anti-perovskite materials will allow for the development of next generation solid-state battery technologies.
Program: GCSP research stipend
Seth Thomas Storino
Electrical engineering
Effects of Lithium Carbonate on Lithium Lanthanum Zirconium Oxide Ionic Conductivity and the Adhesion Properties
Studying solid-state electrolyte batteries will help gain knowledge on how to achieve maximal energy efficiency and reliability.
Program: FURI
Summer 2023
Po-Heng Ho
Electrical engineering
Open Air Plasma Sintering of Lithium Lanthanum Titanate (LLTO) Solid Electrolyte
Exploring the interactions of novel proteins in crop plants can lead to higher yields, ensuring food security for growing populations.
Program: FURI
Jacob Burrows
Electrical engineering
Low-Temperature Reduction of Metal Oxide Semiconductors Using Open-Air Plasma
Open-air plasma technology improves semiconductor device performance and longevity by reducing metal oxidation in printed circuit boards.
Program: FURI
Isabella R. Bozzo
Mechanical engineering
Production of Flexible Perovskites to Characterize Their Electrical Properties Using Mechanical Strain
Studying effects of strain on perovskite will increase their application in solar panels.
Program: FURI
Hanson Nguyen
Electrical engineering
Scaling of All-Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells through Improved Thermodynamic and Mechanical Stability
Engineering stability in all-inorganic perovskites will enhance the mechanical properties of perovskites for improved scalability for the solar energy industry.
Program: FURI
Spring 2023
Wenxi Isak Tang
Materials science and engineering
A Novel Method in Processing LiPON for Lithium Ion Battery
Finding a new approach to make a battery material called LiPON has the potential to create safer lithium batteries with a wide range of applications.
Program: FURI
Hithesh Rai Purushothama
Electrical engineering
Measuring and Controlling Mobile Ion Concentration to Improve Operational Stability in Perovskite Thin Films
Synthesis of perovskite thin films with ionic additives enhances optoelectronic properties, leading to sustainable technologies.
Program: FURI
Rodrigo Estrada Torrejon
Electrical engineering
Thermal Stability Characterization of Perovskite Solar Cells
Studying the resistance to thermal stress of different perovskite solar cells will help implement them as mass-produced solar panels.
Program: FURI
Adianne Alamban
Materials science and engineering
Tuning the Composition of Perovskite Semiconductor Materials for Building-Integrated Photovoltaics
Cation and anion engineering of semitransparent perovskites will open avenues for harnessing energy through solar window applications.
Program: FURI
Kayshavi Bakshi
Mechanical engineering
Measuring Mechanical Properties and Robustness of Perovskite Thin Film Energy Devices
Designing highly efficient, durable solar films will allow for more renewable energy usage.
Program: FURI
Erin Burgard
Environmental engineering
A New Method for Measuring Thin Film Stress Under Operational Conditions to Understand Perovskite Solar Cell Degradation
Understanding perovskite degradation will help increase efficiency and solar energy will become cheaper and more accessible to the public.
Program: FURI
Gabriel Adams
Electrical engineering
Characterizing Anti-Perovskite Films for Solid-State Electrolytes in Batteries
Creating and testing new antiperovskite materials will allow for the development of next-generation solid-state battery technologies.
Program: FURI
Carsen Cartledge
Materials science and engineering
Open-Air Manufacturing of Robust Perovskite Thin Films Enabled by Food Industry Additive
Engineering scalable and robust solar materials by adding gellan gum, a food industry additive, will help advance renewable energy.
Program: FURI