Postdoctoral Fellow in Physics

Project Overview

THERMAGINE – ERC Consolidator Grant Project. This PhD position is part of the THERMAGINE project, which investigates how thermal fluctuations drive magnetization switching in nanoscale magnetic materials, and how this process can be engineered for real-world applications. The research focuses on combining ferromagnetic materials, antiferromagnetic materials, multilayer heterostructures with applications in magnetic particle imaging (MPI) and magnetic hyperthermia for cancer treatment.

Research Environment

The project is hosted by the DynaMat group at Ghent University. The group specializes in nanoscale magnetization dynamics, advanced micromagnetic simulations (e.g. MuMax), integrated experimental and computational research. The environment is international, interdisciplinary, highly collaborative, experiment–theory integrated.

Research Focus

As a PhD researcher, you will focus on experimental nanomagnetism: NV (nitrogen-vacancy) microscopy on individual nanostructures, measurement of magnetization dynamics at the nanoscale, sample preparation and nanostructure characterization. Experimental data analysis and interpretation, development of measurement protocols, correlation of experimental results with theoretical models. You will work closely with simulation researchers, sample fabrication teams, theoretical modelling experts.

Responsibilities

• Conduct original research leading to a PhD degree
• Perform NV microscopy experiments
• Develop and optimize experimental methods
• Analyze nanoscale magnetic systems
• Present results at international conferences
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to collaborative group research

Candidate Profile

Required: Master’s degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Materials Science or closely related field. Strong interest in experimental physics, magnetism, nanoscience. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to work independently. Good communication skills in English. Motivation to pursue a PhD.

Preferred: Background in nanomagnetism, spintronics, magnetic materials. Experience with scientific programming (Python or similar), magnetic characterization techniques, NV microscopy or scanning probe methods, nanofabrication or cleanroom work. Data analysis experience. Prior publications or conference presentations. Dutch language proficiency.

What We Offer

Full-time doctoral fellowship (100%). Initial contract: 12 months. Extension: up to 48 months total (subject to evaluation). Start date: 1 September 2026 (earliest).