Meet Nutifafa Doumon, assistant professor, materials science and engineering at Penn State

Nutifafa Doumon is an assistant professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering as well as part of both Institutes of Energy and the Environment (IEE) and the Alliance for Education, Science, Engineering, and Design with Africa (AESEDA) at Penn State. He is an interdisciplinary scientist with a background in physics, nanoscience, and leadership. His main research interests focus on materials for next-generation photovoltaic and optoelectronic technologies.
With an emphasis on the energy landscape and a deep-rooted motivation derived from witnessing global disparities in energy distribution, Doumon’s research primarily centers on understanding the optoelectronics, photophysics, and improving the stability of new-generation solar technologies, including polymers, organic materials, perovskites, and quantum dots. Their objective is to extend the lifetime and enhance the commercial viability of these innovative energy solutions.
"I am thrilled to join Penn State and contribute to the cutting-edge research in energy materials and engineering,” said Doumon. “My goal is to make a significant impact by advancing the understanding of degradation mechanisms and developing strategies to enhance the stability and lifespan of next-generation energy devices."
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration, Doumon highlights his vision of fostering partnerships beyond the confines of Penn State. "I believe in the power of collaboration and aim to establish networks that extend not only within the University but also with researchers in underrepresented minority communities in Africa and parts of Asia. By promoting these interrelationships, we can amplify the impact of our research and create a more inclusive and sustainable future."
Penn State's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and engagement with diverse communities deeply resonated with Doumon. He was particularly drawn to the University's focus on fostering connections between academia and the broader community, as well as promoting collaboration with minority-driven communities. "Penn State's dedication to bridging the gap between researchers and communities, both locally and internationally, aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations. I am excited to be part of an institution that prioritizes such interrelationships," said Doumon.
Doumon is not only driven by his professional pursuits but also values his personal connection to the community. "I believe in creating a supportive environment for both research and family life. Penn State's vibrant student town and the safe community make it an ideal place to grow professionally and personally," said Doumon.
In addition to his research and teaching responsibilities, Doumon will be involved in AESEDA at Penn State. AESEDA serves as a platform for collaboration between Penn State and international partners, particularly in Africa, fostering bilateral relationships and promoting academic exchange.
Prior to joining Penn State, Doumon was jointly a researcher at INRS-EMT (Canada) and Jilin Normal University (China), with research activities mainly carried out in Canada, exploring the field of solar technologies. He then joined the Chemistry and Nanoscience Center at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Golden, Colorado, as a researcher working as part of the Department of Energy Solar Energy Technology Office’s (SETO) Perovskite Photovoltaic Accelerator for Commercializing Technologies (PACT) and the SETO’s SLAC Perovskite teams.
Learn more about materials science and engineering at Penn State at matse.psu.edu

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Thanks for the interest. Please email Prof. Doumon directly at [e-mail] to inquire about openings in his group.