PhD for local sensing of collective spin phases

A central goal of modern condensed matter physics is to control magnetism at the nanoscale. Recently, a breakthrough platform for exploring this frontier has been brought by semiconducting moiré materials (SMMs) consisting of twisted or lattice-mismatched monolayers of van der Waals (vdW) crystals. With their flat electronic bands and excellent optical properties, SMMs embedded in gated heterostructures host a variety of collective spin phases, thus serving as artificial quantum materials that provide direct optical access to spin-physics and offer a tunability approaching that of cold-atom simulators.
The Quantum Opto-Electronics Group (QOEG; https://smolenski-lab.com), led by Prof. Dr. Tomasz Smoleński at the Department of Physics, University of Base, in collaboration with the group of Prof. Martino Poggio, is searching for a new PhD studentto develop a platform for local sensing of collective spin phases in SMMs by integrating optical spectroscopy with SQUID-on-tip (SOT) magnetometry. Our hybrid approach will uniquely combine the dynamical control offered by optical experiments with excellent spatial resolution provided by SOT, enabling simultaneous application of both techniques on a single device. Beyond fundamental impact, our studies will have far-reaching implications for emerging nanotechnologies.
Key requirements:

• MSc degree, either completed or expected soon, in Physics, Electrical/Optical Engineering, or a closely related discipline,
• A solid background in condensed matter physics and optics, supported by an excellent academic record,
• Experience with data analysis and familiarity with software tools for automated measurement, data acquisition, or data processing,
• The ability to work effectively in a team, with strong communication and collaboration skills,
• A high level of motivation, independence, creativity, and commitment to research,
• Very good written and spoken English.

Desirable:

• Track record of research papers or conference presentations,
• Experience in scanning probe experiments (STM, NV magnetometry, SQUID-on-tip etc),
• Experience in clean-room processing and/or handling van der Waals materials.

Thrive in an inspiring, international research environment with cutting-edge infrastructure, where your work will directly impact the future of quantum technologies. Get involved in all aspects of research, from engineering and fabricating electrically-tunable devices, through designing and assembling experimental setups, to performing magneto-optical measurements. The University of Basel stands for openness, diversity, team spirit, and scientific curiosity.
Application / Contact

Apply now and become a part of our fast-growing team! Please submit your application via our online recruiting tool. (CV, publication list, conference presentations, and contact details of at least two referees). Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.