With leading research into fundamental physics, we can answer important questions about the world of today and tomorrow. This requires curious individuals who want to push the experimental boundaries of science with their talent and expertise. As a PhD Candidate at the Scanning Probe Microscopy department, you get to explore the future of nanoelectronics with our state-of-the-art facilities.
Over the past few years, 2D materials have been of high interest as they exhibit a wealth of quantum phases with correlated ground states, such as unconventional superconductivity, charge order and/or novel magnetic structures. There are various open questions on the fundamental level regarding the mechanisms that underlie these correlated ground states, as well as concerning the understanding of the role of the interface and dimensionality.
The goal of this PhD project is to investigate the magnetic order in different quantum phases of 2D materials at the atomic scale, and to shed light on the role of electron correlations. The approach is to use a combination of ultra-high resolution SPM techniques.
You will investigate the role of electron-electron interactions in novel magnetic quantum phases of 2D materials. The approach is to use various STM and AFM methods to probe the atomic-scale magnetic order along with the geometric structure. More particularly, you will apply the worldwide unique combination of SP-STM and magnetic exchange force microscopy (called SPEX) that we have recently developed in our department. You will join a young and innovative team of experienced researchers and technicians and work within cutting-edge UHV-based cryogenic SPM facilities. You like to push experimental boundaries and enjoy utilising high-precision and complex measurement procedures. You will have the opportunity to further develop your supervision skill by teaching students on the Bachelor and Master level (up to 10% of the appointment).
N. Hauptmann et al., Nano Lett. 17, 5660-5665 (2017).
N. Hauptmann et al., Nature Communications 11, 1197 (2020).
Want to hear the experiences of a PhD candidate in the Scanning Probe Microscopy Group? Read Nikil's story in 'A Day in the Life'.