Ion beam modification of thin films for advanced voltage-tunable magnetoresistance magnetic sensors

A PhD scholarship in physics is offered for experimental research into ion beam modification of thin films to develop novel voltage-tunable magnetic sensors. The successful candidate will join the world leading GNS Science [1] and the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences [2] at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW). The scholarship will provide a generous non-taxed living allowance of NZ$27,000 per annum plus the PhD tuition fee for three years.

The thesis research will involve ion beam implantation in single and multilayer films with the aim to modify the materials properties in magnetoresistance magnetic sensors and thereby achieve voltage tuning of the sensing axis. It is part of a larger programme headed by the Robinson Research Institute (RRI) [3] with the aim to make new magnetic sensors for non-destructive testing to ensure infrastructure reliability. All three institutions are located in Wellington, New Zealand. Thin films will be made at RRI and GNS Science. Implantation will be undertaken at GNS Science and ion beam methods will be used to characterise the films. The structures will be further characterised by x-ray diffraction, SEM, and TEM. The magnetic and electronic properties will be researched up to 9 T and down to 2 K using our physical property measurement system (PPMS) and our magnetic property measurement system (MPMS). Access to additional resources within New Zealand is available from the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology [4] where the PhD supervisors are investigators.

Applicants should have a physics degree equivalent to the 4-year BSc (Honours) degree in New Zealand, with 1st class Honours, or an MSc or postgraduate Diploma with high grades. We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of solid state physics, and able to work well in a multi-institutional team. Candidates should satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at Victoria University and applicants should ensure that they can satisfy the English language requirements (e.g. IELTS minimum overall band of 6.5, no sub-score below 6) [5].

Interested applications are invited to send an email with “PhD: Ion beam modification for voltage-tunable magnetoresistance magnetic sensors” to Prof Grant Williams ([Email Address Removed]) and Dr John Kennedy ([Email Address Removed]). Please note that all applications must include:
- A full Curriculum Vitae, including your University Transcripts,
- A statement detailing why you are interested in this project,
- The names of at least two people who are prepared to act as referees,
- Evidence of your English language ability,
- A clear statement about when you would expect to be able to come to NZ.