PhD position in Opto-Spintronics

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Supervisor:                                                            Prof. Dr. Stuart Parkin
Responsible Scientific Pillar Coordinator:      Dr. Ke Xiao

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We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position in Opto-Spintronics, focusing on optical studies on novel magnetic materials with advanced optical techniques (far-field: µ-PL (Photoluminescence), Raman, SHG (Second Harmonic Generation), RMCD (Reflected Magnetic Circular Dichroism), or near-field: s-SNOM (scattering-type Scanning Near-field Optical Microscopy) with MIR (Mid-Infrared) and THz (Terahertz), etc). This exciting project will contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersection of optics, superconductivity, magnetism, and nanotechnology.

Your goals

The student will primarily work with a cryogenic opto-electronic measurement platform based on an OptiCool system and a femto-second laser as well as a cryogenic s-SNOM system. Key aspects of the project include:

• Studies of the interplay between photons, spins and charge: Exploration of the coupling between photons, electronic spins, and charge carriers in atomically engineered multilayer and 2D van der Waals systems, with the primary goal of uncovering novel physical phenomena.
• Cryogenic optical experiments: Performing low-temperature optical measurements to probe and characterize interesting magnetic properties and to carry out related experiments as needed.
• Teamwork: Carrying out independent research as well as supporting others in the group.

Your profile

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate with:

• An MSc degree in physics, materials science, optics or related fields, including a final thesis project.
• Demonstrated track record of excellence in research and coursework.
• Experience using optical techniques.
• Familiarity with magnetism and superconductivity is advantageous but not required.

Why join us?

This PhD position provides the opportunity to work in a dynamic research environment equipped with state-of-the-art nanofabrication and cryogenic measurement facilities under the supervision of Prof. Stuart S.P. Parkin in NISE (Nano-system From Ions, Spins and Electrons) department. The project offers significant scope for high-impact research at the forefront of condensed matter physics and nanotechnology.

We offer

• Cutting-edge infrastructure: Access to state-of-the-art facilities for material growth, device fabrication, and comprehensive assessment. (Learn more about our facilities at www.mpi-halle.mpg.de/nise/facilities)
• Collaborative research culture: An open and engaging working environment focused on tackling impactful challenges in the field, with the freedom to contribute your own ideas toward solving high-impact problems.
• Work–life balance: Flexible working time to support both professional and personal needs.
• Competitive remuneration: Salary in accordance with 65% of pay group EG13 TVöD-Bund.

All necessary training will be carried out after admission. The starting date is flexible.

Your application

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and become part of our collaborative research environment.

• To apply, please submit your documents through our application portal with reference to job code PhD-Optics-2025 including CV, motivation letter, and two reference letters until January 31, 2026.

The Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics gives priority to applications from severely disabled candidates with equivalent qualifications. Furthermore, we strive to increase the proportion of female employees and, therefore, specifically encourage women to apply.

For more information, please visit www.mpi-halle.mpg.de/nise.