Karin Hinzer


Karin Hinzer is a Canadian physicist who is a professor and Vice Dean for Research at the University of Ottawa. She holds a University Research Chair in Photonic Devices for Energy. Her research considers new strategies to harness solar energy.

Early life and education

Hinzer was born in Canada. She earned her undergraduate and graduate degrees at the University of Ottawa. Her master's research investigated semiconductor quantum dot lasers. Her early work considered the physics of quantum dots. She developed strategies to design and fabricate III-V multi-junction semiconductor devices at the National Research Council Canada.

Research and career

In 2007, Hinzer joined the University of Ottawa, where she launched a lab that models and characterises next-generation solar cells. She established SUNLAB, the top solar cell research facility in Canada. She was appointed Tier II Canada Research Chair in Photonic Nanostructures and Integrated Devices, and worked alongside Morgan Solar to increase the efficiency of solar panels. Hinzer showed that semiconductor quantum dots could be used to capture the whole solar spectrum, which could be used in combination with solar concentrators. Working with the Université de Sherbrooke on a new strategy for high efficiency solar cells, which they achieved by reducing electrode-induced shadowing and size.
Hinzer is the Vice Dean for Research at the University of Ottawa. She is Editor of the IEEE Journal of Photovoltaics.

Awards and honours

Selected publications

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