When Rafael Jaramillo discusses his most cherished achievements, it immediately becomes evident that he possesses the ideal disposition for a researcher – he thrives on challenges and the promise of diligent effort.
Expressing his pride in endeavors demanding daring strategic planning, followed by extensive technical labor, and culminating in validation, Jaramillo, the Thomas Lord Career Development Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, reflects on his journey. He remains undeterred by the specter of failure, acknowledging the ambitious nature of attempting to supplant silicon in specific applications, acknowledging, “Time will reveal whether I am spending a lifetime making a mockery of myself.”
Despite his modesty, Jaramillo boasts several notable accolades. In 2021, he and his research team accomplished the creation of thin, top-notch films utilizing a novel group of semiconductor materials, potentially beneficial in applications like solar cells and environmentally friendly LEDs. These materials, known as chalcogenide perovskites, exhibit exceptional stability and are composed of economical, nonhazardous elements.
Raised by two musicians, Jaramillo attended schools in Brookline, Massachusetts, where his early interest in space and astronomy blossomed. Interacting with MIT professor and cosmologist Alan Guth, Jaramillo’s curiosity led him to inquire about the universe’s dimensions during the initial phases of the Big Bang. This encounter left a lasting impression on him, recalling Guth’s kindness and patience.
His fascination with space gradually evolved into a passion for physics, culminating in a bachelor’s degree in applied and engineering physics from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Chicago.
Driven by an innate urge to comprehend and elucidate concepts with simplicity, Jaramillo chose to pursue physics. He appreciates the discipline for its problem-solving methodologies, experimental approaches, and the intellectual rigor it demands. Transitioning from a physics background to materials science, Jaramillo identified valuable synergies in his work, attributing the originality of his ideas to his unique perspective within the field.
Transitioning between fields necessitated substantial effort during his postdoctoral stints. Intent on delving into solar cell research, Jaramillo meticulously sought opportunities to expand his knowledge in semiconductors, materials science, and energy technologies. His tenure at MIT, which commenced in 2015, marked a pivotal point in his career trajectory.
Jaramillo’s current research focuses on pioneering materials that could revolutionize the semiconductor industry, particularly in telecommunications, microelectronics, and photovoltaics. Embracing the challenge of exploring novel materials to overcome existing limitations, he emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation in the field.
Enthused by the growing global interest in his research on chalcogenide perovskites for solar cells, Jaramillo welcomes the burgeoning community and competition in this once-isolated domain. His perseverance and dedication underscore his belief in the potential impact of chalcogenide perovskite solar cells on global solar power generation.
As a steadfast advocate for ambitious pursuits, Jaramillo urges MIT students, who mirror his unwavering drive, to set lofty goals and tackle complex problems. Emphasizing the fulfillment derived from overcoming challenges, he encourages aspiring scientists and engineers to aim high and pursue endeavors that push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.