PhD Position in Experimental Quantum Magnetism – Microwave Spectroscopy of Rare-Earth Magnets

About the role

The Laboratory for Quantum Magnetism (LQM) at EPFL performs fundamental research in magnetism and correlated electron materials, combining material synthesis, low-temperature, high-pressure and high-field experiments, neutron and X-ray scattering, and theory. This PhD position focuses on microwave spectroscopy of rare-earth quantum magnets, studying entanglement between electronic and nuclear degrees of freedom, transitions between electro-nuclear states driven by an external magnetic field, and how those states can be manipulated by external perturbations. The project is supervised by Prof. Henrik Rønnow and Dr. Ivica Živković.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and complete the doctoral research project
• Design and run experiments and visit large-scale neutron, X-ray and muon facilities regularly
• Analyse and interpret experimental results
• Write scientific articles for peer-reviewed journals and present at international conferences
• Supervise student projects and provide basic administrative support
• Contribute to teaching

Required profile

• Master's degree in Physics or a related field
• Strong background in solid-state physics and quantum mechanics
• Excellent spoken and written English
• Willingness to learn and engage in challenging research

What we offer

• A challenging PhD project supervised by Dr. Živković and Prof. Rønnow
• Access to state-of-the-art microwave spectroscopy facilities and measurements under low-temperature and high-magnetic-field conditions
• A collaborative research environment and opportunities to present at international conferences and build collaborations

Candidates must apply with a transcript, CV, motivation letter and three references. The student enrolls in the EPFL physics doctoral school; after one year of successful probation the initial contract is extended to a total of four years.