About the Project
‘Orbital currents' transport orbital angular momentum in nanoscale thin-film magnetic multilayers without associated flow of charge. Their utilisation in orbitronics offers a transformative physical route to low-cost energy-efficient beyond-spintronics applications in low-power computing and communications, based on the electrical manipulation of magnetism. The application of electric current results in orbital as well as spin currents as the spin- and orbital- Hall effects generating them are intimately related. The spin- and orbital-currents act on magnetisation via current-driven torques with the same symmetries, so demonstrating unambiguous separation of orbital- and spin-currents in experiments proves challenging.
In this project we will develop model thin-film multilayer device structures and measurements combining soft X-ray magnetic scattering and in-situ magneto-optical Kerr magnetometry to provide robust characterization of depth-dependent current-driven magnetization configurations arising due to tailored interplay between orbital- and spin-current torques. These measurements, using magneto-optics measurements integrated into the x-ray beamline by the student, will provide a novel means to enable separation of orbital- and spin-current torques on magnetization; allowing orbital currents to be harnessed for future device applications.
The student should have an interest in the broader field of magnetism & spintronics. Background in film deposition, magneto-optics, magnetisation dynamics, and/or x-ray scattering, and experience in programming for data analysis and measurement automation, are helpful but not necessary. The project will include an extended placement at Diamond Light Source, Oxfordshire.
For more information about the condensed matter physics section at Durham University please see here.
Sponsor: EPSRC
Name of supervisor(s): Dr Aidan Hindmarch
Eligibility Criteria: You must have or expect a First-Class honour bachelor's degree, or at least a 2:1 Integrated master’s degree or a master’s degree in an appropriate subject, from a recognised university (or equivalent).
Applications are open to Home, international and EU candidates.
If English is not your first language, you must have IELTS 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6 in all sub-skills) or equivalent evidence of English language proficiency.
How to apply: You must apply through the University’s admission system: How to Apply - Durham University. One application can be used for multiple projects.
You will need to:
- Provide the project title and supervisor’s name under the ‘Programme Related Information’ section.
- Provide details of any funding you have secured or intend to apply for under ‘Additional Information – Funding Information’. This may include CSC, DDS, STFC or EPSRC funding. Please select ‘Other Funding’ and enter the details in the text box provided. You can also include this information under ‘Programme Related Information’.
- Upload your CV under the ‘Experience’ section by selecting ‘Yes’ and uploading the document.
- Upload a personal statement/cover letter under the ‘Personal Statement’ section.
- Provide a short research proposal of a few paragraphs, no longer than one page, outlining your research interests under the ‘Research Proposal’ section.
- Upload your degree transcripts and certificates and, if English is not your first language, evidence of your English language qualifications.
- Provide details for two academic referees, including their email addresses, so that we can contact them directly. Please ensure you consent to the University contacting your referees when completing your application.
Contact: For informal enquiries please contact [contact details available in the full listing] (general) or [contact details available in the full listing] (project specific).
Funding Notes
This EPSRC studentship will be awarded on a competitive basis between projects. Besides these EPSRC studentships, interested candidates may also consider external sources of funding which they may be eligible for.
Start date and duration October 2027 (3.5 Years)
