can be used to manipulate magnetic data bits, drive domain-wall motion, and enable stochastic and unconventional computing approaches.
Methodology
This PhD project will explore the non-equilibrium behaviour of magnetic materials and nanomagnetic devices. Working within an interdisciplinary research environment, the successful candidate will develop and investigate novel reconfigurable magnetic metamaterials using fast, efficient, and optically controlled nanoscale heating techniques.
The project aims to uncover how thermal gradients and non-equilibrium conditions can be exploited for information processing applications, including controlled magnetic switching, magnetic domain manipulation, and unconventional computing architectures (for examples see https://dx.doi.org/10.1039/C9NR01628G, https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevApplied.18.024014, or https://doi.org/10.1103/9mlg-ckxl).
The scope of this PhD project allows to either take an experimental approach (including nanofabrication of devices and table-top measurements of optical, magnetic and electrical properties), a focus on numerical multi-physics simulations, or a combination of both, depending of the candidates interests.
Environment
As a research student within the Department of Physics you will be exposed to diverse material research such as magnetism, spintronics, and novel 2D and topological materials for energy-efficient applications, as well as interdisciplinary links to neuromorphic computing architectures. You will benefit from our recent £4.2m building refurbishment and the University's investment in updating our physics, chemistry and engineering laboratories. Research within the Department of Physics is further supported by access to an experienced team of researchers and state-of-the-art facilities of the Loughborough's Material Characterisation Centre (LMCC), which contains over £6m of world-class characterisation equipment.
At Loughborough University you will join a diverse, supportive and academically stimulating community engaged in wide-ranging research. You will be supported in your research aspirations through joint weekly research meetings and trained on technical, industry relevant skills, including nanofabrication, drafting publications and presenting at international conferences. There will be opportunities to travel nationally and internationally.
Find Out More - Why do a PhD at Loughborough? https://www.lboro.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research-degrees/why-study-for-research-degree/
For questions regarding the project please contact Dr Naëmi Leo (n.leo@lboro.ac.uk / https://www.lboro.ac.uk/departments/physics/staff/naemi-leo/)
Entry requirements:
Students should have, or are expected to achieve, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, materials engineering, or a related subject. A relevant master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: characterisation of electric or magnetic properties, optics experiments, programming knowledge (e.g., python).
English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).
Funding information:
The studentship is for 3 years and provides a tax-free stipend of £21,805 per annum for the duration of the studentship plus university tuition fees at the UK rate. Due to funding restrictions, this is only available to those eligible for UK fees.
This project is part of the Future Leader Fellowship.
Bench fees required: No
Closing date of advert: 14th October 2026
Start date: February 2027
Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years
Who is eligible to apply?: UK Only
How to apply:
All applications should be made online. Under Campus, please select ‘Loughborough’ and select Programme ‘Physics’. Please quote the advertised reference number NL/PH/2027 in your application.
To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents. The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.
Project search terms:
nanotechnology, solid state physics, spintronics, magnetism, nanomagnetism, multi-physics simulations, nanolithography, thermal transport
Email Address Sci:
sci-pgr@lboro.ac.uk
