PhD position in nonlinear laser spectroscopy on novel types of ferroic order

In the Laboratory for Functional Ferroic Materials we investigate materials where strong coupling between electrons leads to novel types of ordering processes of their spins and charges. We study the fundamental physics of these materials with a focus on experimental basic research yet including the perspectives on theoretical background and technological relevance. Our experimental core technologies are nonlinear and ultrafast optical spectroscopy with pulsed lasers. In addition, we apply scanning probe microscopy, standard magnetic and dielectric characterization methods, Monte-Carlo simulation, and pulsed-​laser-deposition of oxide thin films.

The PhD project unites our leading international expertise in nonlinear laser spectroscopy and (multi-) ferroic materials. Currently the possible existence and physical properties of new forms of ordered states in matter are intensively discussed. Examples are advanced multiferroicity, altermagnetism, hidden order, chiral states, or topological phases. Systematic exploration of such states is an emerging topic and therefore offers the opportunity to contribute to the development of a new research field.

The goal of the doctoral project is to explore such novel manifestations of ferroic order with the use of pulsed-laser systems. The distribution and manipulation of the ordered regions – domains – exhibited by such novel ferroics is of particular interest because domains reveal the coupling processes underlying the ordered state and are also key to device functionality.

There are not many labs in the world with the knowledge to do this kind of work, and so studies of domains in new types of ferroic materials are scarce despite their significance for basic and applied research. To the curious person, the PhD project thus offers plenty of room for exciting physics and groundbreaking discoveries, and our lab has exactly the expertise to acquire these.

Candidates will use our workplaces for nonlinear laser spectroscopy. They will design and set up their own experiment and are never afraid to tear it down and try a new approach, should this become necessary. Candidates will also learn to work with cryogenic environments. Despite the focus on laser-based experiments, the involvement of other experimental techniques and in-depth discussion with theoretical groups are likely.

• You have a masters degree in Physics or Materials Physics
• You have basic education in condensed-matter physics
• You like to work on complex problems with an urge to understand phenomena at their roots
• You are highly motivated, self-organized, creative, and used to thinking sideways
• You are a team player who likes to work in an interdisciplinary environment at the interface between optics and condensed-matter physics
• You are communicative with the ability to explain your project to non-specialists in simple words
• You may have experience in the work with high-power laser systems; this is welcome but not required

• Outstanding lab facilities with several femtosecond and nanosecond laser systems
• An international environment of mutually supportive people
• A flat hierarchy: everyone's opinion weighs the same in scientific discussions
• Excellent working conditions and an internationally competitive salary
• Support for attending international conferences and workshops
• An extensive network of scientific collaborators
• Access to the excellent technological infrastructure of ETH Zurich
• Administrative support