Zahra Heydari

R&D Engineer | Nanomaterials & Semiconductor Devices | Solar Energy, Hydrogen & Sensors

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

About

I am an R&D Engineer and Materials Scientist with over 10 years of combined experience in academia and industry, specializing in nanomaterials, optoelectronic devices, and renewable energy technologies. My work focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and integration of metallic and semiconductor nanomaterials for high-performance energy devices. I have strong hands-on experience in advanced materials characterization, cleanroom processes, and device nanofabrication, allowing me to contribute effectively to applied R&D projects from concept to implementation. I am particularly experienced in translating laboratory-scale research into technology-oriented and scalable solutions. Previously, I worked as an R&D researcher at Nooran Energy, an international renewable energy company, where I contributed to the establishment of Iran’s first silicon solar cell manufacturing plant, in collaboration with CETC Solar Energy (China). This role strengthened my ability to operate at the interface of research, engineering, and industrial deployment in the renewable energy sector. Currently based in Rio de Janeiro, I am a postdoctoral researcher working on advanced photovoltaic and energy materials, including III–V semiconductor-based solar cells, photocatalytic systems, and MXene–TiO₂ heterostructures for hydrogen production and environmental applications. My background across photovoltaics, photocatalysis, and nanofabrication positions me well for R&D roles focused on energy transition, advanced materials, and sustainable technologies.

Experience

  • Postdoctoral Researcher at Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
    Feb 2025 - Present · 1 yr 5 mos

  • Visiting Researcher at Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro
    Oct 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 9 mos

  • Research And Development Engineer at Nooran Energy Co
    Mar 2022 - Sep 2023 · 1 yr 7 mos

  • Research And Development Engineer at Lotus Intelligent Nano-Sensors Company
    Sep 2020 - Oct 2021 · 1 yr 2 mos

    • Design and Fabrication of MEMS/NEMS sensors. • Experience in clean room processes and device fabrication steps, including: ▪ Dry Etching (RIE) ▪ Silicon Wet Etching using KOH & Etch stop technique ▪ PVD Systems (DC & RF Sputtering/ Thermal & E-beam evaporation) ▪ CVD Systems (Oxidation Furnace, Doping process) ▪ Standard Lithography (Optical Lithography)

  • Physics Instructor at Payam Noor University, Bushehr Branch- Islamic Azad University of Bushehr and Gachsaran.
    Sep 2009 - Jun 2015 · 5 yrs 10 mos

    I have the experience of teaching Physics courses including "Basic Physics (1, 2 &3)", "Analytical Mechanics" and "Modern Physics" for about 5 years after graduating from my MSc degree.