PhD in Atomic Layer Engineering and 3D Nanofabrication for Emerging Quantum and Spintronic Devices – Germany
Job Description
Organization: Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics
Programme: International Max Planck Research School for Science and Technology of Nano-Systems (IMPRS-STNS)
Department: Nano-systems from Ions, Spins and Electrons (NISE)
Location: Halle (Saale), Germany
Position: PhD in Atomic Layer Engineering and 3D Nanofabrication for Emerging Quantum and Spintronic Devices
Project Overview
The Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics is inviting applications for a fully funded doctoral position through the IMPRS for Science and Technology of Nano-Systems.
The project focuses on developing emerging quantum and spintronic devices through atomic-scale engineering of functional materials and interfaces. It aims to move beyond conventional planar device architectures by combining atomic layer deposition (ALD), atomic layer etching (ALE) and advanced two-dimensional and three-dimensional nanofabrication.
The research will develop ultrathin magnetic and superconducting heterostructures with sub-nanometre thickness control and tailored interfaces. These materials and fabrication techniques will be used to explore unconventional device concepts, including three-dimensional magnetic racetracks and superconducting Josephson junctions.
The project brings together materials science, nanofabrication, condensed-matter physics and device engineering.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop ALD and ALE processes for magnetic and superconducting materials.
- Fabricate ultrathin heterostructures with atomic-scale thickness and interface control.
- Develop advanced nanofabrication processes for 2D and 3D spintronic and quantum devices.
- Integrate atomic layer engineering with three-dimensional nanofabrication techniques.
- Perform cleanroom processing, including electron-beam lithography and related fabrication techniques.
- Conduct thin-film characterization and electrical and magnetic measurements.
- Investigate novel spintronic and superconducting phenomena.
- Analyse experimental data and interpret research results.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams.
- Present findings at scientific conferences and seminars and contribute to research publications.
- Participate in relevant doctoral courses, workshops and professional development activities.
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Physics, Materials Science or a related discipline, including a final thesis project.
- Strong academic performance and evidence of research ability.
- Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with cleanroom processing and nanofabrication, including lithography and dry etching.
- Familiarity with Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), Atomic Layer Etching (ALE) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
- Experience with thin-film characterization.
- Familiarity with magnetic or electrical measurements.
Experience with ALD/ALE or CVD is advantageous but not mandatory.
Employment Details
- Full-time doctoral research position.
- Fully funded through the IMPRS-STNS PhD programme.
- Research facilities include advanced nanofabrication and cryogenic measurement infrastructure.
- The project is supervised within the NISE department at the Max Planck Institute of Microstructure Physics.
Salary & Benefits
- Advertised compensation: €3,185 per month.
- The salary listing does not specify whether this amount is gross or net.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities.
- Opportunities for professional development, international scientific networking, conferences and workshops.
- Collaborative research environment and interdisciplinary training.
Application Documents
Applicants should submit:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Two letters of reference from academic supervisors with whom they have worked.
- Full academic transcripts.
- Motivation statement explaining their interest in the selected research topic.
Applicants who do not have updated reference letters available may submit their applications without them and follow the instructions provided by the institute for submitting references later.
Supervisor and Research Contact
Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Stuart S. P. Parkin
Scientific Contact: Dr. Jiho Yoon
Email: [email protected]
Administrative Contact: Michael Strauch
Email: [email protected]
Application Deadline
15 November 2026, 23:59 CET.
Starting Date
Not specified in the supplied vacancy details.
External Link
Research topic: https://www.imprs-stns.mpg.de/67169/atomic-layer-engineering
Applications must be submitted through the IMPRS-STNS application portal. Select the research topic “Atomic Layer Engineering and 3D Nanofabrication for Emerging Quantum and Spintronic Devices”.
Application portal:
