The Nanodevices Group at the CIC nanoGUNE Research Center in San Sebastian (Spain) is currently looking for a

Predoctoral Researcher

who is interested in performing a PhD thesis in the area of

Metal Spintronics / Spin orbitronics

This research is funded by Intel Co., the world leading microprocessor company, through a collaborative project entitled “Optimization of spin-to-charge current conversion in a lateral device using spin-orbit effects”. The research topics encompass the generation and transport of spin currents in novel materials and interfaces. Promising methods that exploit the spin-orbit coupling to create pure spin currents will be studied, such as the spin Hall effect in heavy metals, the Rashba-Edelstein effect at interfaces or the spin-momentum locking at topological insulators.

 The research will require the nanofabrication of devices (thin film deposition, electron-     beam lithography, etching), together with their magnetotransport measurements (high magnetic fields and low temperatures).

The Nanodevices group, co-led by Prof. Luis E. Hueso and Prof. Fèlix Casanova, is currently composed of 20 members including senior and junior researchers. The group counts with extensive research facilities for fabrication and characterization of devices and several active research lines spanning from nanofabrication to 2D electronics and spin transport. More information can be found at http://nanodevices.nanogune.eu

As an example related to this specific position here advertised, a selection of recent work on metal spintronics / spin orbitronics which our team has led can be found in the following articles: arXiv:1702.01971; Nature Communications 7, 13372 (2016); Physical Review B 94, 060412(2016); Physical Review B 93, 014420 (2016); Physical Review Letters 116, 016603 (2016); Physical Review B 91, 024402 (2015).
Job description

  • Nanofabrication of devices (thin film deposition, electron beam lithography, etching)
  • Magnetotransport measurements (high magnetic fields and low temperatures)
  • Data analysis and physical understanding of the results

Your qualifications

  • Completed master degree or equivalent in Physics, Materials Science or related discipline.
  • Experience on the following techniques will be valued:
    • Thin film growth (sputtering, evaporation, etc.)
    • Nanofabrication processes (lithographies, etching, etc.)
    • Characterization techniques (X-ray diffraction, SEM, etc.)
    • Magnetotransport techniques (magnetoresistance, Hall Effect, etc.)
  • Self-motivated and willingness to perform independent research.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills in English.

What we offer

  • Fixed term contract for 3 years.

How to apply

Applicants should send their CV together with a cover letter explaining his/her interest in the position and at least two reference letters to:  f.casanova@nanogune.eu

The position is available immediately and it will remain open until a successful candidate is appointed.