Postdoctoral Researcher: Multilayer Magnetism for Spintronic Applications & Advanced Magnetic Force Microscopy

Materials science and technology are our passion. With our cutting-edge research, Empa's around 1,100 employees make essential contributions to the well-being of society for a future worth living. Empa is a research institution of the ETH Domain.

Our Magnetic & Functional Thin Films Group designs and fabricates magnetic and functional thin films with tailored properties arising from nanoscale effects. These materials are explored for applications ranging from magnetoelectronic devices to advanced biomedical systems.

A central strength of our group is the development and operation of unique, home-built scanning probe microscopy platforms that enable quantitative magnetic field measurements with nanometer-scale spatial resolution and ultra-high sensitivity. These systems allow, for example, the detection of extremely weak stray fields, including those emerging from antiferromagnetic thin films.

Our instrumentation integrates magnetic force microscopy (MFM) with complementary techniques such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and piezo-response force microscopy (PFM). This multimodal approach enables the correlation of magnetic signals with structural, electrical, and functional properties at the nanoscale.

We apply these capabilities to both internally designed and fabricated magnetic multilayers and nanostructures, as well as to samples provided through established international collaborations, allowing us to address a broad range of fundamental and application-driven questions in nanoscale magnetism.

In addition, micromagnetic modeling is closely integrated through collaborations, including ongoing efforts in inverse and data-driven modeling, enabling quantitative interpretation and predictive design of complex magnetic systems.

Your tasks

We are seeking an exceptional postdoctoral researcher to join a highly specialized research group at the forefront of quantitative nanoscale magnetism and advanced scanning probe microscopy, and develop innovative magnetic multilayer systems for spintronic and biomedical applications. The position is particularly suited to candidates with a strong background in thin film magnetism. Prior experience in scanning probe microscopy is advantageous but not required; candidates with outstanding expertise in magnetism and a strong motivation to develop advanced SPM skills are highly encouraged to apply. Your work will combine advanced scanning probe microscopy instrumentation, magnetic materials science, and fundamental physics to push the limits of how magnetic multilayers and nanostructures can be measured, understood, and engineered for spintronic and related applications at the nanoscale.

Your profile

Essential

• PhD in physics, nanoscience, or a related field
• Strong background in thin film magnetism and/or scanning probe microscopy
• Interest in quantitative nanoscale measurements and the development of advanced instrumentation and methods
• Proven ability to conduct independent research

Highly desirable

• Experience with MFM, AFM, KPFM, or related SPM techniques
• Knowledge of magnetic thin films, multilayers, or nanostructures
• Experience in micro- and nanofabrication

Our offer

• A highly specialized and technically unique research environment with world-leading, custom-built microscopy platforms
• Participation in a broad network of international collaborations, driven by our unique experimental capabilities
• Significant scientific independence and responsibility
• Competitive salary and excellent working conditions in Switzerland

The position is available for one and a half years with potential for prolongation.

We live a culture of inclusion and respect. We welcome all people who are interested in innovative, sustainable and meaningful activities - that's what counts.

We look forward to receiving your complete online application including a letter of motivation, CV, certificates, diplomas and contact details of two reference persons. Please submit these exclusively via our job portal. Applications by e-mail and by post will not be considered.