YSU doctoral student advances solar research, earns recognition at regional conference

Student Spotlight

Youngstown State University doctoral student Solomon Atta is contributing to advances in solar energy research while gaining recognition for his work at a regional conference.

Originally from Ghana, Atta has long been driven by a curiosity about how things work and how scientific innovation can solve real-world problems. That interest ultimately led him to pursue a doctorate in materials science and engineering at YSU, where he focuses on research with potential applications in energy and sustainability.

“Materials are the foundation of so many technologies we use every day,” Atta said. “I saw pursuing a Ph.D. at YSU as an opportunity to grow as a researcher while working on projects that can have a real impact.”

Atta’s research project, titled, “Spray Pyrolytic Deposition and Characterization of CdTe-Based Thin Films,” allowed him to take a closer look at solar energy technology. Cadmium telluride, or CdTe, is widely used in thin-film solar cells, making it a key material in the development of efficient and cost-effective solar panels.

Atta’s work involves producing and analyzing extremely thin layers of material used in solar panels and studying how different processing conditions affect their performance.

“In simple terms, I’m trying to understand materials that convert sunlight into electricity,” he said. “The better we understand them, the more we can improve the efficiency of solar energy technologies.”

Improvements in CdTe-based materials could lead to more efficient solar panels, helping make clean energy more accessible and affordable. Beyond solar applications, Atta’s work also contributes to a broader understanding of how materials can be optimized for a range of technologies.

Atta’s research efforts were recently recognized at the Microscopy Society of Northeast Ohio and the Society for the Applied Spectroscopy conference, held at John Carroll University, where he placed third.

Atta said the recognition was unexpected, given the level of competition. “There were many strong projects at the conference,” he said. “Hearing my name announced was a very pleasant surprise.”

He added that the award was especially meaningful because it acknowledged the often unseen work that goes into research.

“As graduate students, we spend a lot of time working behind the scenes, running experiments, troubleshooting problems and trying to make progress one step at a time,” he said. “It was encouraging to see that effort recognized by others in the field.”

At YSU, Atta credits faculty mentorship and access to research facilities for helping him succeed. He works closely with Clovis Linkous, professor of chemical and biological sciences, who he said has played a key role in shaping his academic journey.

“He encourages me to think independently and to understand the reasoning behind my decisions,” Atta said. “That has helped me become more confident and prepared to tackle research challenges on my own.”

After completing his doctorate degree, Atta hopes to continue working in research and development, particularly in advanced materials and energy technologies. He is open to opportunities in industry, national laboratories or academia, with a focus on contributing to innovation.

For other students interested in research, Atta emphasizes persistence and curiosity. “Don’t wait until you feel completely ready,” he said. “Be curious, ask questions and don’t be discouraged when things don’t work the first time. Some of the most valuable lessons come from experiments that fail or results you didn't expect. Research is about learning as you go.”

Through his work at YSU, Atta is not only advancing his own knowledge in materials science but also contributing to a growing body of research aimed at improving clean energy technology for the future.