The Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI‑FKF) in Stuttgart, Germany, is a leading research institution dedicated to cutting‑edge basic research in quantum materials, nanoscience and materials for sustainable energy. Around 400 scientists, students and staff investigate how the physics and chemistry of condensed matter give rise to novel electronic, magnetic and functional properties.

Our Nanoscale Science Department is offering a PhD Position in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics: Spin Textures in 2D van der Waals Magnets.

About the group

You will work in the Nanoscale Science Department, embedded in an international and interdisciplinary environment, and with access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory infrastructure and large‑scale facilities.

The PhD project

We invite applications for a PhD position in experimental condensed matter physics focusing on spin textures in two‑dimensional (2D) van der Waals (vdW) magnets and heterostructures. The aim is to understand how non‑trivial spin configurations - such as magnetic domains, skyrmions and related textures - form, evolve and can be controlled in ultrathin vdW magnetic systems.

A central part of the project is the investigation of magnetic spin textures using scanning transmission x‑ray microscopy (STXM), with a strong emphasis on experiments at the MAXYMUS end station at the BESSY II synchrotron (HZB, Berlin). You will be involved in the full experimental workflow:

• Preparation and basic characterization of 2D vdW magnetic samples and heterostructures.
• Planning and execution of synchrotron beamtimes at MAXYMUS.
• Comparison with micromagnetic or theoretical models in collaboration with theory partners.
• Depending on your interests and the project development, complementary techniques such as magnetometry, magneto‑transport, Kerr microscopy or x‑ray spectroscopies may also be used.

Your tasks

• Design, fabricate and characterize 2D vdW magnetic samples and heterostructures.
• Plan, perform and analyze STXM measurements of spin textures at MAXYMUS (BESSY II).
• Quantitatively analyze the dependence of spin textures on temperature, magnetic field and sample architecture.
• Collaborate with materials growth, theory and beamline teams at MPI‑FKF and partner institutions.
• Prepare scientific publications and present results at international conferences and workshops.

Your profile

• Master’s degree in physics, materials science or a closely related discipline (completed or close to completion).
• Solid background in condensed matter physics and magnetism, and strong interest in 2D materials and spin textures.
• Experience in at least one of the following areas is a strong asset:
• Experimental magnetism or condensed matter physics (magnetometry, magneto‑transport, Kerr microscopy, etc.).
• Synchrotron‑based or x‑ray microscopy/spectroscopy techniques.
• Thin‑film growth, nanofabrication or handling of 2D materials.
• Data analysis and programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB) or micromagnetic simulations.
• Very good command of written and spoken English; knowledge of German is an advantage but not a prerequisite.
• High motivation for experimental work, including participation in synchrotron beamtimes and occasional work outside regular hours during beamtime campaigns.
• Ability to work independently.

We offer

A fully funded full-time PhD position (m/f/d) for three years initially with salary and social benefits according to the German public sector regulations (TVöD Bund, equivalent of 71% of E13).

An excellent research environment with access to advanced laboratory infrastructure at MPI‑FKF and regular synchrotron beamtimes at BESSY II (MAXYMUS).

Opportunities for professional development, including participation in international conferences, summer schools and workshops.

An international, collegial work atmosphere in Stuttgart, a major centre for research and industry in southern Germany.

How to apply

Please submit your application, including the following documents in a single PDF file to PD Dr. Marko Burghard at M.Burghard@fkf.mpg.de :

• Motivation letter (1–2 pages) explaining your research interests, relevant experience and why you wish to work on spin textures in 2D vdW magnets.
• Curriculum vitae, including a brief description of your Master’s thesis and a list of publications (if available).
• Copies of degree certificates and transcripts of records.
• Contact details of at least two referees (name, affiliation, email).

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

For enquiries, please contact PD Dr. Marko Burghard at M.Burghard@fkf.mpg.de as well.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from individuals with disabilities. The Max Planck Society endeavours to achieve gender equality and diversity. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.