The Minerva Fast Track Group “Spin-Orbital Electronics”, established in October 2021 at the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics in Halle (Saale), Germany, uses methods of theoretical physics to discuss transport phenomena in solids, which originate from spin-orbit coupling. Examples for such effects are the spin Hall effect, which is the generation of a transversal spin current in nonmagnetic materials, or the Edelstein effect, which corresponds to a current-induced homogeneous spin polarization in systems with broken inversion symmetry. Our theoretical calculations base on the Boltzmann transport theory, Kubo linear response theory, and nonlinear transport theories based on the polarization operator.
Besides these phenomena, which focus on the transport of the spin degree of freedom, we also discuss the corresponding orbital effects: As an example, the orbital Edelstein effect corresponds to a current-induced magnetization originating from the orbital angular moments of the electrons.
The main focus of our research is on topologically nontrivial materials, such as topological insulators, or Weyl semimetals. We are particularly interested in transport effects resulting from the topology of the band structure of a solid.
We are looking for a PhD candidate (m/f/d) who wants to contribute to the field of spin-orbitronics as a member of our group. The PhD position is available from October 1st, 2023, and is funded for three years.
Your tasks
The candidate will learn to perform the following tasks:
- theoretical discussion and simulation of transport phenomena in solids, based on density functional theory, tight-binding models and effective model Hamiltonians,
- investigation of topological properties of solids and resulting transport phenomena,
- presenting and publication of scientific results,
- contributing to an inclusive and dynamic team-working environment.
Your profile
The candidate is expected to develop in-depth knowledge about the theory of spin-orbit coupling, topology, and transport in solids. The candidate should be highly creative, proactive, self-motivated and capable of independent work. Active participation and engagement in the research activities of the group is highly desirable.
We seek a candidate with
- MSc degree (or equivalent) in physics, material science, or a related discipline,
- experience in theoretical solid state physics, in particular transport theory, spin-orbit coupling, topological properties, density functional theory or model Hamiltonians is beneficial,
- programming skills are highly beneficial,
- very good English skills.
We offer
- excellent research and working conditions,
- an open-minded, inspiring and international working environment,
- a highly motivated team.
The Max Planck Institue 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 details, please see our group webpage or contact Annika Johansson annika.johansson@mpi-halle.mpg.de. Please send your application including a letter of motivation, your CV (and publication list, if applicable), as well as contact details of two scientists that can provide references until July 15th, 2023, to Annika Johansson annika.johansson@mpi-halle.mpg.de.