Research Assistant (Praedoc) (m/f/d)

The goal of this project is to resolve spin dynamics at nanometer length and picosecond time scales. Usually, the method of choice for investigating single atoms on surfaces is low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy / spectroscopy (STM/STS). However, this technique is very slow with its fundamental time resolution being limited by the stray capacitances. In contrast, ultrafast time resolution can be achieved by femtosecond laser spectroscopy. We have recently succeeded in coupling THz pulses into the junction of a low-temperature STM and achieved pico-second time resolution in the tunnel junction. More generally, our group has a strong focus on single-atom magnetism at surfaces. Using tunneling spectroscopy, we resolve spin excitations and exchange interactions with a substrate, such as the Kondo effect on metals or Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states on superconductors. With the new THz-STM technique we aim at gaining a fundamental understanding of the dynamics of these magnetic systems. Job description:
You will be using and further improving the THz-STM for resolving spin dynamics of single atoms and nanostructures on surfaces. You will be investigating the spin relaxation channels of magnetic adatom structures on transition metal dichalcogenides. You will resolve the influence of the atomic-scale environment and the role of spin-orbit coupling. Finally, you will design magnetic nanostructures which allow to tailor the interactions with the environment.
You will be given the opportunity to work on state-of-the-art experiments and contribute to their further improvement. You will have the opportunity to do research towards a PhD degree. You are expected to be an active member of the research group Franke and of the collaborative research center “Ultrafast Spin Dynamics” and participate in its Graduate School. Requirements:
Master of Science in Physics Desirable:
Master of Science in Physics with focus on ultra-fast optics or surface physics. You are a highly motivated student and curious to carry out high-level experiments. You like to work in a team, but can also work independently. You have a strong interest and background in solid state physics. You have experience in (several of) the following areas: scanning tunnelling microscopy / spectroscopy, ultra-fast optics, surface physics, ultra-high vacuum techniques, low temperature equipment, and programming. Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents, indicating the reference code, in PDF format (preferably as one document) no later than June 6^th, 2022 to Mrs. Prof. Dr. Katharina Franke: stm@physik.fu-berlin.de or postal to Freie Universität Berlin
Fachbereich Physik
Institut für Experimentalphysik
Mrs. Prof. Dr. Katharina Franke
Arnimallee 14
14195 Berlin (Dahlem) With an electronic application, you acknowledge that FU Berlin saves and processes your data. FU Berlin cannot guarantee the security of your personal data if you send your application over an unencrypted connection.