PhD Position – Non-collinear Altermagnetic Weyl Semimetal: Polarized neutron scattering investigations

Are you interested in uncovering the physics of altermagnetic Weyl semimetals using polarized inelastic neutron scattering? Then join us now.

The Jülich Centre for Neutron Science - Quantum Materials and Collective Phenomena (JCNS-2) offers an outstanding environment for cutting-edge research in quantum materials, combining internationally renowned expertise in neutron scattering with advanced in-house characterization facilities and access to leading large-scale facilities. Your research will contribute to the emerging field of altermagnetism and the development of future spintronic and quantum technologies with broad societal impact.

Your Job

Momentum-dependent spin splitting is traditionally associated with spin–orbit coupling effects such as Rashba and Dresselhaus interactions. However, recent symmetry analysis reveals that antiferromagnets can exhibit spin splitting even without SOC, including in centrosymmetric, light-element materials—an emerging class known as altermagnets, opening new directions for spintronics.

This PhD project will use polarized inelastic neutron scattering to explore a non-collinear antiferromagnet, aiming to provide definitive evidence of altermagnetism beyond the collinear limit. The work will uncover chiral magnon behavior and push the experimental frontier of altermagnetic research.

Your tasks include:

• Preparation of samples for neutron diffraction experiments
• Characterization using in-house PPMS, MPMS, and X-ray diffraction
• Perform scattering experiments at large-scale neutron and x-ray scattering facilities
• Evaluation, documentation, and publication of the obtained data via reports, manuscripts, and presentations
• Cooperation with and co-supervision of intern and master students

Your Profile

• Master’s degree or equivalent in physics, chemistry, materials science, crystallography, or a related field
• Experience in (neutron) scattering techniques is of advantage
• A scientific background in the proposed research area is advantageous but not mandatory
• Very good command of written and spoken English with extensive vocabulary is required (at least B2 level according to the CEFR), ideally supported by a certificate confirming the language level. Knowledge of the German language is not mandatory but certainly appreciated

Our Benefits for You

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Team & Environment: You will work in a motivated team with an international and interdisciplinary focus – at one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• Research & Infrastructure: You will have access to excellent scientific and technical facilities for your work
• Networking & Exchange: You will participate in (international) conferences and project meetings and actively build your scientific network
• Supervision & Support: We will accompany your doctoral studies with continuous, expert guidance from your academic supervisor
• Work-life balance: We offer flexible working hours to help you balance your professional and personal life. You also have the option of flexible working (in terms of location), which is generally possible after consultation and in line with upcoming tasks and (on-site) appointments
• Annual Leave: You get 30 days of annual leave
• Knowledge & Development: Your professional development is important to us – we support you specifically and individually e.g., through training and networking opportunities specifically for doctoral candidates (JuDocS)
• Fair remuneration: Depending on your qualifications and assigned responsibilities, you will be classified according to pay group 13 (75%) of the TVöD-Bund. In addition to the basic salary, there is an additional year-end bonus under the collective pay agreement amounting to 75% of a monthly salary, as well as capital-forming benefits. All information about the TVöD-Bund collective agreement can be found on the BMI website (pay scale table on page 66 ff. of the PDF download)
• Fixed-term: The position is limited to 3 years
• Support for international employees: Our International Advisory Service makes it easier for international employees to get started

In addition to exciting tasks and a collegial working environment, we offer you much more: https://go.fzj.de/benefits

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.

The following links provide further information on diversity and equal opportunities: https://go.fzj.de/equality and on specific support options: https://go.fzj.de/womens-job-journey

Place of Employment: Jülich

Start Date:To the next possible date

Salary: Pay group 13 (75%) TVöD-Bund

Application Deadline: The position will be advertised until it is successfully filled

Application Process Contact form

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