EPSRC: Spin-lattice dynamics in advanced magnetic materials

About the Project

Advanced magnetic materials provide a versatile platform for exploring emergent spin phenomena and developing next-generation technologies. In this PhD project, the candidate will employ atomistic spin-lattice dynamics simulations, a framework that combines atomistic spin dynamics (magnons) with molecular dynamics (phonons), to investigate ways of manipulating spins in various magnetic systems. Systems of interest include two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials, since they offer several key advantages over traditional bulk materials, such as interface and proximity effects that can be exploited for device functionality and reduced electrical current requirements, making them highly promising for energy-efficient computing and storage technologies. This PhD project will provide novel insights for exploiting phonons and emergent phenomena in future spintronic and quantum technologies. The successful candidate will benefit from strong national and international collaborations throughout the project.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline.

Funding

This 3.5-year PhD studentship is open to Home (UK) applicants. The successful candidate will receive an annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26; subject to annual uplift), and tuition fees will be paid. We expect the stipend to increase each year. EU students with settled or pre-settled status and international student can apply but their application eligibility will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

The start date is October 2026.

We recommend that you apply early as the advert may be removed before the deadline.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply. Please include details of your current level of study, academic background and any relevant experience and include a paragraph about your motivation to study this PhD project.

How to apply

Apply online through our website: https://uom.link/pgr-apply-2425

When applying, you’ll need to specify the full name of this project, the name of your supervisor, if you already having funding or if you wish to be considered for available funding through the university, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees.

Your application will not be processed without all of the required documents submitted at the time of application, and we cannot accept responsibility for late or missed deadlines. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

After you have applied you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents:

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications
• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress
• CV
• Supporting statement: A one or two page statement outlining your motivation to pursue postgraduate research and why you want to undertake postgraduate research at Manchester, any relevant research or work experience, the key findings of your previous research experience, and techniques and skills you’ve developed. (This is mandatory for all applicants and the application will be put on hold without it).
• Contact details for two referees (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/work email address as we may need to verify the reference)
• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing FSE.doctoralacademy.admissions@manchester.ac.uk.