Postdoctoral Research Fellow

This new full-time post is available on a fixed-term basis from 01/02/2026 to 31/01/2028 in the Department of Physics and Astronomy.

We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the EPSRC-funded research project “Ultrafast manipulation of magnetic order via charge transfer in van der Waals heterostructures”. The project focuses on visualizing and manipulating antiferromagnetic spins of 2D van der Waals magnetic materials, in both space and time. The project seeks to integrate semiconducting and magnetic properties at the atomic level and ultrafast timescale, crucial for the development of faster, more energy-efficient data storage and quantum devices.

The post will involve fabricating 2D van der Waals heterostructures, carrying out magnetic and electrical characterization at low temperatures and high magnetic fields, conducting time-resolved pump–probe experiments using ultrafast lasers, analysing data, and disseminating results at national and international conferences. The project is in partnership with the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory in Florida, the University of Edinburgh, and Seagate Technology.

About you

Applicants should hold a relevant PhD in Physics or an equivalent qualification/experience in a related field. The successful applicant will have an extensive knowledge of condensed matter physics, magnetism, 2D materials, and optics. In addition, we expect the candidate to have:

• hands-on experience with 2D materials fabrication and/or ultrafast lasers.
• a collaborative mindset, clear communication skills, and enthusiasm for scientific discovery.
• the ability to work independently and familiarity with recent relevant scientific literature.
• programming skills in at least one of the following (LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB or C++).

Please ensure you read the Job Description and Person Specification for full details of this role.

What we can offer you

• A multitude of staff benefits including generous holiday allowances, flexible working, pension scheme, relocation package (if applicable), maternity, adoption and shared parental leave (up to 26 weeks full pay), Paternity leave (up to 6 weeks full pay), and a Fertility Treatment Policy.
• A beautiful campus set in the heart of stunning Devon.
• Access to excellent infrastructure, which includes cleanroom, Imaging Suite, and the Exeter Time-Resolved Magnetism (EXTREMAG) facility.
• Freedom (and the support) to pursue your intellectual interests and to work creatively across disciplines to produce internationally exciting research.
• Our Exeter Academic initiative supporting high performing academics to achieve their potential and develop their career.

The University of Exeter

The University of Exeter is an equal opportunity employer. We are officially recognised as a Disability Confident employer and an Athena Swan accredited institution. Whilst all applicants will be judged on merit alone, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce. 

Further information

For further information please contact Maciej Dąbrowski, e-mail: m.k.dabrowski@exeter.ac.uk

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