Postgraduate Scholarship in Experimental Investigation of Iridium-based Quantum Materials

A funded PhD position is available in the field of Quantum Materials.

Quantum materials with strong electron-electron correlations offer great technological promise while at the same time posing deep fundamental questions. In recent years systems with 5d orbitals have drawn particular attention due their potential to realise exotic topological phases. The aim of the project is to investigate experimentally crystalline solids with 5d electrons whose complex phase diagrams feature topological insulator, superconductor and strong magnet phases. We will focus on Iridium systems (such as doped IrTe2 and Ir oxides) whose properties are dramatically affected by strong spin-orbit coupling (a relativistic effect) and by their exceptionally extended orbitals. The work will involve probing the atomic and electronic structures of quantum materials using world-leading large-scale national and international X-ray, neutron and muon sources. This will be complemented by magnetisation and transport measurements at state-of-the-art in-house low-temperature facilities.

The successful candidate will be based at the University of Kent’s main campus in Canterbury as part of the Physics of Quantum Materials Research Group, and work under the supervision of Dr S Ramos. The Physics of Quantum Materials research group offers (PQM) a supportive environment leveraging world-class expertise in Condensed Matter Physics (both theory and experiment) with a strong focus on Quantum Materials. PQM is part of the School of Physical Sciences at the University of Kent which offers a multidisciplinary and dynamic research environment, with over a hundred postgraduate students working on different areas in Physics, Astronomy, Chemistry and Forensic Science.

This PhD Studentship is due to start in September, 2020.

Webpage(s): https://research.kent.ac.uk/pqm

Entry requirements: Applicants should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in Physics, Applied Mathematics, Materials Science, or a related subject.

How to Apply: : To apply please go to https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/212/physics.
You will need to apply through the online application form on the main University website. Please note that you will be expected to provide personal details, education and employment history and supporting documentation (Curriculum Vitae, transcript of results, two academic references).