PhD student at FZJ - magnetic and structural properties of novel two-dimensional quantum materials

NEXTSTEP will train 36 enthusiastic researchers to exploit the unique and transversal capabilities of analytical research infrastructures in tackling the challenges associated with sustainable development and industrial competitiveness in the areas of "Health", "Digital, Industry & Space", "Climate, Energy and Mobility" and "Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment", which are at the heart of Horizon Europe. Host laboratories : ESRF and ILL (France), FZJ (Germany), AREA (Italy), NTNU (Norway).

More details about the Nextstep Doctoral Programme on

Context & Job description

Thesis subject : Microscopic understanding of magnetic spin textures in novel two-dimensional materials using advanced transmission electron microscopy Magnetic two-dimensional materials have generated significant interest over the past decade due to their tunable functional properties, such as novel magnetic moment distributions and diverse magnetic spin textures that emerge under varying growth and preparation conditions. These characteristics offer unique opportunities to control magnetization at the nanoscale, paving the way for next-generation energy-efficient memory devices, advanced logic circuits and robust quantum bits.

This Ph.D. project aims to investigate such novel magnetic configurations using advanced magnetic (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM) techniques with near-atomic spatial resolution. A key objective is to understand how material growth techniques affect chemical composition and crystal structure and to correlate these effects with the resulting electronic and magnetic properties on a local scale. By exploring "designer" two-dimesional materials, the Ph.D. candidate will help to pioneer the next generation of functional quantum materials.

The project will be hosted at the Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons (ER-C), one of the world's most advanced electron microscopy facilities. The ER-C houses an unparalleled collection of state-of-the-art electron microscopes, which enable high-resolution studies of materials and devices with exceptional spatial and energy resolution, as well as phase contrast techniques that are suitable for measurements of the local magnetic properties of materials.

This project is a collaboration between the ER-C and the Department of Inorganic Chemistry in the University of Chemistry and Technology Prague (UCTP), Czech Republic. It combines the design and synthesis of new magnetic materials at UCTP with their in-depth characterization using advanced TEM techniques in the ER-C. The candidate will have the opportunity to split their time between the two institutions, ensuring comprehensive training in novel growth techniques and cutting-edge (S)TEM methods, with the majority of the time spent in the ER-C.

Expected profile

• Degree allowing enrolment for a PhD (such as MSc, Master 2 de Recherche, Laurea or equivalent) in physics, chemistry or a closely-related natural science such as materials science, nanotechnology, etc. However minimum degree level may vary between universities.
• The ideal candidate will have a background in one or more of the following areas : electron microscopy, experimental work related to two-dimensional materials, crystal growth methods. A knowledge of programming, scripting and image analysis would be an advantage.
• Proficiency in English (A proof of upper-intermediate B2 level must be included in the application. Applicants originating from native-English-speaking countries can apply without the need for proof of level. An official degree conducted in English will be also accepted as a proof). If the applicant is unable to provide proof, an English test (free of charge) will be requested.
• Compliance with the Marie Sklodowska-Curie mobility rule : candidates may not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the host institute's country for more than twelve months in the three years immediately before the date of the application deadline.
• All researchers recruited must be doctoral candidates, i.e. not already working towards or in possession of a doctoral degree at the date of the recruitment.
• Candidates must satisfy the conditions for enrolment in a doctoral programme.

Working conditions

The successful candidate will be enrolled in the doctoral school at University of Chemistry and Technology Prague (UCTP) on a 4-year programme. The candidate will be based at UCTP for 6 months both at the start and at the end of the programme. For the remaining 3 years, the candidate will be based full-time in Forschungszentrum Jülich, other than a secondment of at least two months at UCTP. A varied pedagogical training programme will be offered to the successful candidate throughout the Ph.D. project.

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

Do you recognize yourself in this description ? Apply now for your next professional adventure !