PhD project in Strongly Correlated Behaviour in 2D Magnets

A PhD position is available to investigate strongly correlated behaviour in two-dimensional magnets at the Robinson Research Institute^[1], Victoria University of Wellington, Lower Hutt, New Zealand. The key innovative aspect of this research involves combining measurements of optical, electronic, and magnetic properties to uncover new physics arising from their low dimensionality and tunable electronic characteristics. Furthermore, some of these materials exhibit linear-dispersing topological bands near the Fermi level, thereby holding promise for a range of new spintronic applications.

Through this project, the candidate will learn how to conduct temperature-dependent photometric optical spectroscopy measurements on a Bruker Vertex 80v interferometer across a wide spectral range from 10 meV (~80 cm⁻¹) to ∼4.3 eV (35,000 cm⁻¹) using several sources, beam splitters, and detectors. A solid understanding of solid-state physics is essential, as the candidate must be competent in interpreting experimental data, for example, modelling the reflectivity data via the REFFIT software to identify itinerant carriers and search for interband transitions that might occur in the 2D magnets. To aid their understanding of the results from optical studies, the candidate will also perform temperature-dependent resistivity and Hall effect measurements using a Quantum Design Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS) capable of reaching up to 14 Tesla and cooling to 100 mK. Additionally, the candidate will acquire and interpret magnetisation data from New Zealand’s only SQUID magnetometer (QD-MPMS), which is equipped with pressure cells that can reach 3 GPa. Other characterisation tools that the candidate will be using include powder-XRD, SEM-EDS, and Raman spectroscopy, all of which are available at Victoria University of Wellington.

This PhD project will involve several organisations, including The University of Auckland, the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, and our collaborators at USA.

Eligibility

Applicants should have a degree equivalent to the 4-year Physics (Honours) degree in New Zealand, with 1st class Honours, or an MSc or postgraduate Diploma with high grades (i.e., GPA > 3.6/4). We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of physics, and the ability to work well in a team. Candidates should satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at Victoria University of Wellington and applicants should ensure that they can satisfy the English language requirements ^[2].

How to apply

Please send an email to Dr Shen Chong (shen.chong@vuw.ac.nz) and Prof. Bob Buckley (bob.buckley@vuw.ac.nz) with “PhD in Strongly Correlated Behaviour in 2D Magnets” in the subject line. Please include the following information,

1. A full curriculum vitae, including your university transcripts
2. A statement detailing why you are interested in this project
3. The names of at least two people who are prepared to act as referees
4. Evidence of your English language ability that satisfies Victoria Universities requirements^[2]
5. Your expected starting date

Funding Notes

The PhD applicant will have to apply for a Wellington Doctoral Scholarship^[3] and will receive a stipend of $30,500 per annum for 3 years, as well as payment of all university tuition fees. A top up to this scholarship is possible with the availability of extra funding.