PhD Magnetic sensing devices with tuneable detection range

Motivation

The next generation of sensing tools are expected to deliver top performance for high precision detection, whilst having tuneable properties, being ultracompact and multifunctional, and provide seamless integration in hybrid platforms. Magnetoresistive sensors can fulfil the requirements of high sensitivity and spatial resolution in magnetic field detection, ideal to leverage applications. Still, their operation parameters are set to fit (usually narrow) final requirements. These are defined and imprinted during thin-film deposition and fabrication. Being able to manipulate, as needed and during operation, the sensing device properties has the potential to push further the limits of performance, broaden applications of spintronic sensors, or possibly extend their lifetime. Critical challenges involve the design of variable linear sensing range or customized temperature windows for magnetic field detection.

This project will explore pathways to adjust sensor field sensitivity, on demand, allowing to correct for  changes in distance from magnetic field sources, or field intensity over time. Such capabilities will allow the design of versatile devices, suitable for tuneable biomedical and position sensors.

The work will be carried out in the group Physics of Nanostructures (FNA) at the department of Applied Physics of the Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) where you will be part of a research team developing hybrid magnetic sensors. This  environment enables you to work in close collaboration with other colleagues fostering creativity and leadership, and providing a strong basis for the success of your project.

Your project

This work aims at delivering new solutions for magnetoresistive sensors design demonstrating a variable linear operation range. Strategies based on materials engineering are a promising route as they provide a solid route to ensure compatibility with current thin-film stacks and patterning processes. Using the available state of the art facilities at TU/e for thin film deposition, nano/micro fabrication, and characterization, your research will target novel schemes to manipulate effectively the magnetic properties of the sensing layer.  The initial approach will consider layered ferrimagnets near the compensation temperature (e.g. Co/Gd systems), whose changes in the magnetic behaviour can be driven by spin orbit torques and/or local temperature changes. This can be expanded further to include different thin-film materials and stimuli. In addition, engineering of the magnetoresistive multilayers by creating compositional variations has been successfully used for memory applications, and can provide a wide playground for the desired tunability in sensing devices. Such tailor made changes have a direct impact on sensors properties and performance.

We are looking for a talented and highly motivated young researcher who meets the following requirements:

• Hold a recent Master of Science or equivalent degree in (experimental, engineering) physics. Specialization in solid state physics, nanomaterials or nanotechnology is appreciated.
• Relevant background knowledge in thin film deposition and characterization methods, and/or device design and fabrication, especially applied to magnetic materials is appreciated.
• Motivated to contribute to education in the department up to 5% of the time, as well as supervising bachelor and master projects. If a large teaching drive is present for you, there is a possibility to extend the contract with one year (5yr) where the extra year is focused on educational reform.
• Strong motivation to work in a team, combining excellent organization and communication skills.
• Experience in the preparation of scientific reports, presentations and publications is valued.
• Good proficiency in spoken and written English.

A meaningful job in a dynamic and ambitious university, in an interdisciplinary setting and within an international network. You will work on a beautiful, green campus within walking distance of the central train station. In addition, we offer you:

• Full-time employment for four years, with an intermediate evaluation (go/no-go) after nine months. You will spend 10% of your employment on teaching tasks.
• Salary and benefits (such as a pension scheme, paid pregnancy and maternity leave, partially paid parental leave) in accordance with the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities, scale P (min. €2,770 max. €3,539).
• A year-end bonus of 8.3% and annual vacation pay of 8%.
• High-quality training programs and other support to grow into a self-aware, autonomous scientific researcher. At TU/e we challenge you to take charge of your own learning process.
• An excellent technical infrastructure, on-campus children's day care and sports facilities.
• An allowance for commuting, working from home and internet costs.
• A Staff Immigration Team and a tax compensation scheme (the 30% facility) for international candidates.