About the Project
Skyrmions are long-lived magnetic entities that maintain their internal magnetic structure when, for example, they move across a magnetic thin film. This ability means that skyrmions can be regarded as quasi-particles which can be used as information carriers for new types of computation such as neuromorphic computing or for data storage. Engineering devices which take advantage of skyrmions requires several challenges to be addressed including the creation of magnetic materials with the…
appropriate magnetic characteristics together with the design and nanofabrication of suitable devices to nucleate, manipulate and detect the quasi-particles.
This Ph.D. project focuses on the detection of skyrmions using quantum magnetic sensors (MTJs). MTJs are extremely sensitive sensors widely used in conventional (HDD) and novel STT-MRAM data storage. The challenge that will be addressed in this project is the fabrication and integration of MTJs in skyrmion-hosting materials and devices that enable the identification of single skyrmions or small clusters of skyrmions, allowing their presence or absence to be reliably detected.
This project will build on our established process for creating MTJs based on a thin (~1 nm) MgO tunnel barrier and CoFeB magnetic layers. Initial work will focus on creating MTJs thin film stacks and their integration into multilayer films that are able to host skyrmions. The ultimate goal is to create a skyrmionic device where nanoscale magnetic skyrmions can flow under an external stimulus (magnetic or electric field) and be detected via a monolithically integrated patterned MTJ. Extensions to the project could include comparing MTJs with advanced spin Hall sensors.
This is an experimental project with very good opportunities to help define the direction of the research. The project will provide access to, and training in, the state-of-the-art instrumentation and facilities for magnetism and nanodevice research in Manchester. This will include sputter deposition and basic structural chacterisation using X-rays and AFM. The main experimental work will focus on magnetic and electrical chacterisation together with the necessary device nanofabrication. There will also be opportunities to collaborate with and network with our existing collaborators in laboratories across Europe.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply: We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply:
To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Engineering Scholarships. If you don’t already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing the motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree (or international equivalent) in Physics, Electrical Engineering or Computer Science OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit (or international equivalent) in Physics, Electrical Engineering or Computer Science
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
Funding Notes
Funding for this project covers tuition fees, UKRI minimum annual stipend (currently £21,805/annum) and up to a £2.5k/annum research training support grant for the full duration of the 3.5-year programme.