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Max Planck Institute PhD Position Experimental Condensed Matter Physics 2026

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Max Planck Institute PhD Position Experimental Condensed Matter Physics 2026

The Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI?FKF) in Stuttgart, Germany invite applications for a PhD position in experimental condensed matter physics focusing on spin textures in two?dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) magnets and heterostructures. The aim is to understand how non?trivial spin configurations - such as magnetic domains, skyrmions and related textures - form, evolve and can be controlled in ultrathin vdW magnetic systems.

The Nanoscale Science Department is offering a PhD Position in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics: Spin Textures in 2D van der Waals Magnets.

You will work in the Nanoscale Science Department, embedded in an international and interdisciplinary environment, and with access to state?of?the?art laboratory infrastructure and large?scale facilities.

A central part of the project is the investigation of magnetic spin textures using scanning transmission x?ray microscopy (STXM), with a strong emphasis on experiments at the MAXYMUS end station at the BESSY II synchrotron (HZB, Berlin). You will be involved in the full experimental workflow:

  • Preparation and basic characterization of 2D vdW magnetic samples and heterostructures.
  • Planning and execution of synchrotron beamtimes at MAXYMUS.
  • Comparison with micromagnetic or theoretical models in collaboration with theory partners.
  • Depending on your interests and the project development, complementary techniques such as magnetometry, magneto?transport, Kerr microscopy or x?ray spectroscopies may also be used.

Your tasks

  • Design, fabricate and characterize 2D vdW magnetic samples and heterostructures.
  • Plan, perform and analyze STXM measurements of spin textures at MAXYMUS (BESSY II).
  • Quantitatively analyze the dependence of spin textures on temperature, magnetic field and sample architecture.
  • Collaborate with materials growth, theory and beamline teams at MPI?FKF and partner institutions.
  • Prepare scientific publications and present results at international conferences and workshops.

You will work in the Nanoscale Science Department, embedded in an international and interdisciplinary environment, and with access to state?of?the?art laboratory infrastructure and large?scale facilities.

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PhD Position Experimental Condensed Matter Physics PhD Position

Application DeadlineNot Specified
Country to studyGermany
TypePhD
SponsorMax Planck Society for the Advancement of Science
GenderMen and Women

Aim and Benefits of PhD Position Experimental Condensed Matter Physics PhD Position

  • A fully funded full-time PhD position for three years initially with salary and social benefits according to the German public sector regulations (TVöD Bund, equivalent of 71% of E13).
  • An excellent research environment with access to advanced laboratory infrastructure at MPI?FKF and regular synchrotron beamtimes at BESSY II (MAXYMUS).
  • Opportunities for professional development, including participation in international conferences, summer schools and workshops.
  • An international, collegial work atmosphere in Stuttgart, a major centre for research and industry in southern Germany.

Requirements for PhD Position Experimental Condensed Matter Physics PhD Position Qualification

  • Master’s degree in physics, materials science or a closely related discipline (completed or close to completion).
  • Solid background in condensed matter physics and magnetism, and strong interest in 2D materials and spin textures.
  • Experience in at least one of the following areas is a strong asset:
  • Experimental magnetism or condensed matter physics (magnetometry, magneto?transport, Kerr microscopy, etc.).
  • Synchrotron?based or x?ray microscopy/spectroscopy techniques.
  • Thin?film growth, nanofabrication or handling of 2D materials.
  • Data analysis and programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) or micromagnetic simulations.
  • Very good command of written and spoken English; knowledge of German is an advantage but not a prerequisite.
  • High motivation for experimental work, including participation in synchrotron beamtimes and occasional work outside regular hours during beamtime campaigns.
  • Ability to work independently.

Application Deadline

Not Specified

How to Apply

Please submit your application, including the following documents in a single PDF file to PD Dr. Marko Burghard at [email protected] :

  • Motivation letter (1–2 pages) explaining your research interests, relevant experience and why you wish to work on spin textures in 2D vdW magnets.
  • Curriculum vitae, including a brief description of your Master’s thesis and a list of publications (if available).
  • Copies of degree certificates and transcripts of records.
  • Contact details of at least two referees (name, affiliation, email).

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

For enquiries, please contact PD Dr. Marko Burghard at [email protected] as well.

For more information, kindly visit Max Planck Institute webpage.

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