PhD position in Coherent Spin Dynamics

Quantum mechanics has revolutionised our society in many ways – from basic chemistry and materials science to semiconductors and the internet. Imagine being able to take apart the smallest building blocks in nature – the atoms – and put them back together again in different ways as if you were building with LEGO. Simply put, that’s exactly what you’ll be doing at TU Delft, a renowned pioneer in the field of quantum nanoscience. As a PhD in Coherent Spin Dynamics, you will help us explore a key new frontier of science: tracing the coherent quantum dynamics of coupled spins on the atomic scale. Your exploratory work will contribute to the discovery of new materials that, in turn, could create disruptive new technologies that go way beyond quantum computing.
Based in Delft, a major hub in quantum science, you will investigate how magnetic materials behave and how we can optimise them. Specifically, you will work on a dedicated research project related to coherent spin dynamics and ESR-STM (electron spin resonance scanning tunnelling microscopy), expanding on our latest results. STM allows for the study of magnetism on the smallest scale: the scale of individual atoms. In recent years, ESR-STM has dramatically expanded possibilities by enabling quantum coherent spin manipulation in such atoms. Building on this framework, our group has developed a unique methodology to trace the free-time evolution of coupled spins using a combination of ESR-STM and very fast DC pulses. This methodology forms the basis for future research, such as 2D spin lattices and atomic-scale quantum information devices. We are also expanding our activities in the area of hyperfine interactions (i.e. nuclear spin manipulation and readout) and non-contact atomic force microscopy (AFM).
You will join a specialized team of academics, PhD students, postdocs and technical support staff in a faculty known for its open, supportive atmosphere. As a PhD candidate, you will run the lab, analyse data, gain experience with modelling, Python coding and operate complex equipment in our cutting-edge Otte Lab (https://ottelab.tudelft.nl). You will have a lot of personal attention, creative freedom and time to experiment. This will give you excellent prospects for a professional future career in academia or industry. Do you want a sneak preview? Watch a video about our work here:
 

Requirements:

Discussing the intricacies of quantum mechanics makes your heart beat faster. Driven by curiosity, you are creative, independent and eager to take initiative. And you have the planning skills to deal with a very complex PhD project. You also have:

• An MSc degree in Physics, or a closely related field.
• Knowledge of Quantum Mechanics and Solid State Physics.
• General experience with Experimental Physics.

The outcomes of this project will be disseminated to the scientific community and a general audience through presentations at (inter)national conferences and through publications in peer-reviewed journals. You will also participate in English-taught Doctoral Education courses and write scientific articles and a final thesis. Additionally, you may be involved in training and teaching BSc and MSc students. Therefore, a certain level of English proficiency is required as well as the social skills to deal with many stakeholders. For more details please check the Graduate Schools Admission Requirements.

Salary Benefits:

Doctoral candidates will be offered a 4-year period of employment in principle, but in the form of 2 employment contracts. An initial 1,5 year contract with an official go/no go progress assessment within 15 months. Followed by an additional contract for the remaining 2,5 years assuming everything goes well and performance requirements are met.
Salary and benefits are in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, increasing from € 2541 per month in the first year to € 3247 in the fourth year. As a PhD candidate you will be enrolled in the TU Delft Graduate School. The TU Delft Graduate School provides an inspiring research environment with an excellent team of supervisors, academic staff and a mentor. The Doctoral Education Programme is aimed at developing your transferable, discipline-related and research skills.
The TU Delft offers a customisable compensation package, discounts on health insurance and sport memberships, and a monthly work costs contribution. Flexible work schedules can be arranged.
For international applicants, TU Delft has the Coming to Delft Service. This service provides information for new international employees to help you prepare the relocation and to settle in the Netherlands. The Coming to Delft Service offers a Dual Career Programme for partners and they organise events to expand your (social) network.

Mekelweg 2