Undergrad students investigate improving solar technology

Rachel Bolerjack, left, a senior in chemistry, works on new materials for solar cells with Lichang Wang, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, center, and Thomas Testoff, a doctoral student in chemistry. The group is testing coal solar cells to better understand assembly issues that could lead to improved efficiency, thus making solar power a more reliable alternative energy for the future. Southern Illinois University Carbondale gives all undergraduates the opportunity to be involved with real research from the moment they arrive on campus.