Doctoral Candidate and Postdoc Positions on Magnonic/Plasmonic Devices, Magnonic Neural Networks, and Plasmonic Condensates/Nanolasers

We at Aalto University Department of Applied Physics are looking for highly motivated doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers to work on experiments in three projects.

Project 1

This is a collaborative research project between the Nanomagnetism and Spintronics group (Prof. Sebastiaan van Dijken) and the Quantum Dynamics group (Prof. Päivi Törmä). The project aims at the excitation, manipulation, and detection of spin-wave signals in magnonic devices using ultrafast localized optical fields. The ultimate goal of the project is the realization of optically controlled magnonic logic gates. As a researcher, you will be working in a multidisciplinary team utilizing state-of-the-art facilities for materials growth, nanofabrication, and ultrafast spin-wave and optical characterization. We are looking for qualified candidates to fill two researcher positions with complementary profiles. Each position may be filled by a doctoral candidate or a postdoctoral researcher. A strong background in magnetism, magnonics, plasmonics, nanophotonics, or optics is required.

Project 2

This project aims at the experimental realization of magnonic neural networks and is conducted in the NanoSpin group of Prof. Sebastiaan van Dijken. As building blocks of the neural networks, patterned YIG films  or YIG-based Fabry-Pérot resonators  will be utilized as non-linear spin-wave scatterers.  The neural networks will be designed and optimized using  micromagnetic simulations and machine learning algorithms. Fabrication involves the growth of ultralow damping YIG films by pulsed laser deposition and advanced e-beam and direct laser-write lithography. Characterization of spin-wave transport along nanochannels will be conducted by broadband spin-wave spectroscopy and state-of-the-art time-resolved magneto-optical Kerr effect microscopy. One position is available within this project. We seek qualified and highly self-motivated applicants with solid training and proven experience in experimental techniques and nanofabrication with knowledge in magnetism, magnonics, and fluency in programming languages and data analysis.

Project 3

This is a project done mainly in the QD group of Prof. Päivi Törmä. It builds on our observation of a plasmonic BEC and lasing in nanoparticle arrays. This project explores these concepts in new types of nanoarrays, such as those hosting flat and/or topological bands. Lasing and BEC phenomena may show unique correlations and topologically protected quantities in such situations. In the project, suitable lattice geometries will be designed, and the lasing/BEC they host will be characterized with respect to spectral, coherence, correlation, and topological properties. One position is available within this project, for an experimentalist with expertise on plasmonics, polariton/photon condensates, (topological) photonics, or (quantum) optics. 

REQUIREMENTS

We are looking for a bright and motivated postdocs or doctoral candidates with an excellent record in the fields of the positions. Good command of English (both verbal and written) and demonstrated ability to disseminate scientific results are mandatory requirements for the position. Applicants must be motivated to conduct research at the highest international level with the aim at publishing high-impact articles.

HOW TO APPLY

The deadline for applications is 28 February 2022. To apply, please see more information and submit your application here: Doctoral Candidate and Postdoc Positions on Magnonic/Plasmonic Devices, Magnonic Neural Networks, and Plasmonic Condensates/Nanolasers | Aalto University .