The Physics Department at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), in collaboration with the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2) and the Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB – CSIC), is offering four fully funded PhD positions within the MSCA-COFUND PHYNEST Doctoral Programme. The research focus is on nanomaterials for advanced memory and computing concepts, with projects spanning magnetoelectric composites, magneto-ionics, 2D organic-inorganic heterostructures, and brain-inspired computing.

Research topics include the design, fabrication, and characterization of CMOS-compatible magnetoelectric heterostructures using lead-free ferroelectrics, flexible magneto-ionic cells for energy-efficient memory, and the use of novel mobile ions for bio-inspired memory and computing systems. Another project explores exploiting random phenomena in magnetic materials for new generation computing strategies, such as stochastic computing and random number generation. There is also a project on molecule-programmable 2D organic-inorganic heterostructures for local tuning of optoelectronic properties, with applications in memristors and high-density memory technologies.

The projects are highly interdisciplinary, combining expertise in materials science, solid-state physics, nanoscience, chemistry, and device engineering. The research groups involved (Gnm3, FOXEM, GTNaM, Nano2Smart Lab, and the Transport Phenomena group) are internationally recognized for their work in advanced materials, thin films, nanostructures, and neuromorphic engineering. The programme offers access to state-of-the-art scientific infrastructure, international training, and secondments, as well as a structured scientific and transferable skills curriculum.

Applicants should have a strong background in materials science, physics, chemistry, nanoscience, or related fields, with experience or interest in thin-film deposition, materials characterization, and device fabrication. The positions are fully funded for 48 months, with a competitive salary (~2,575 € gross/month). The application window opens on 1 January 2026 and closes on 28 February 2026. For more information and to apply, visit the PHYNEST programme website or the provided application link.

Keywords: nanomaterials, magnetoelectric composites, magneto-ionics, memory devices, brain-inspired computing, 2D materials, ferroelectrics, thin films, materials science, spintronics, neuromorphic engineering, energy-efficient electronics.