Dr. Ray’s research is focused on thermoelectric and photovoltaic (solar) energy conversion materials and devices. The current research interest extends to study electrical and thermal properties of new thermoelectric materials showing large figure of merit at high temperatures. Synthesis and characterizations of nano-crystalline perovskite materials to apply them in thermoelectric devices for utilizing waste heats for auxiliary power generation. Concurrent research program on growth of thin film semi-conducting materials suitable for photovoltaic conversion and large scale integration for building and fuel-free vehicles. Current materials of interest include polycrystalline and amorphous Si, CdTe and CIS.

He has active collaborations with scientists from organizations like IIT-Kharagpur, IIT-Kanpur, Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC, DAE, Kolkata), National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi.

Recently he has been working on a new kind of thermoelectric material called delafosite structured material. These are layered semiconductors and show enhanced phonon glass character. The electronic and thermal properties of the material are being studied to apply them for waste heat utilization. Also, currently he is in joint collaboration with other faculties to rationalization program in energy use: A Photovoltaic Powered Laboratory.

Specialization
Experimental Condensed Matter Physics.

Research Interest
Materials for Clean Energy (Thermoelectric, Solar) and Sensors.