systems and methods are operable to generate electric power from heat . an exemplary direct thermal electric converter embodiment includes at least a first recombination material having a first recombination rate , a second recombination material adjacent to the first recombination material and having a second recombination rate , wherein the second recombination rate is different from the first recombination rate , and a third recombination material adjacent to the second recombination material and having a third recombination rate substantially the same as the first recombination rate . application of heat generates at least first charge carriers that migrate between the first recombination material and the second recombination material , and generates at least second charge carriers that migrate between the third recombination material and the second recombination material . the migration of the first charge carriers and the migration of the second charge carriers generates an electrical current .