Faces of the IMPRS: Lukas Fischer

“My motivation for research is the constant learning and discovering.”

What is the focus of your research/doctoral thesis?

I work in the field of spintronics that aims to build devices for a modern memory and computing architecture. Herein, the two binary states of digital data are represented by the two stable magnetization states of a magnet. The boundary between two such states is called a magnetic domain wall. In my research, I investigate the dynamics of these magnetic domain walls by using various optical and electrical techniques. My goal is to enhance our fundamental understanding of domain walls and thus to enhance existing spintronic applications or enable novel ones.

In what ways does the IMPRS support you during your PhD?

The IMPRS offers the organizational framework to manage a successful PhD in a reasonable time. This starts with being assigned to a co-supervisor and mentor in addition to the main supervisor. The regular discussion with the supervisors, the informal exchange with fellow PhD students during seminar talks and the support to attend international conferences are some of the facets of IMPRS that prove to be very helpful in getting feedback and support.

How do you stay motivated and focused throughout the PhD process?

Discussions with colleagues and fellow researchers at conferences help me to see the most relevant research questions to work on. Moreover, seeing my results causing interest keeps me motivated to further contribute to research.

Can you share an unexpected challenge you encountered and how you overcame it?

My biggest challenge probably lied in picking a suitable research topic that fulfilled the requirements of being at the same time (a) impactful, (b) realistic for the course of a PhD and (c) matching my personal interests. In the beginning of a PhD, I was distracted by all the opportunities at our institute and got involved in (too) many small projects. I resolved this challenge by picking the project that was most promising to me and by rigorously prioritizing this main project.

What advice would you give to future PhD students?

Pick a topic that absolutely captivates you and take advantage of the enormous capabilities and expertise that we have at MPI Halle. Try to enjoy the process, even though it will be quite challenging at times.

Who would you recommend to come to the IMPRS for a PhD?

You should bring communication and team skills, independence in your daily work routine and creativity in finding solutions. The most important thing however is scientific integrity and passion!