PhD project: Interface coupling in ferroelectric/ferromagnetic/superconductor systems
KU Leuven is advertising a PhD project in the Quantum Solid-state Physics (QSP) research unit of the Department of Physics and Astronomy, focused on interface coupling in ferroelectric/ferromagnetic/superconductor heterostructures.
The project investigates how a ferroelectric layer can control the magnetic state of a ferromagnetic layer, and how that in turn can be used to tune superconducting properties in an adjacent superconducting layer. The central scientific aim is electric-field control of the ferromagnetic configuration, enabling low-power, miniaturization-friendly functionality compared with magnetic-field control.
The research is highly experimental and materials-focused. The proposed stack includes Si/FE/FM1/SC/FM2 heterostructures, with BaTiO3 as the ferroelectric layer, Fe as FM1, Co40Fe60 as FM2, and NbN as the superconducting layer. Growth will take place using molecular beam epitaxy at KU Leuven’s Ion and Molecular Beam Laboratory (IMBL). A major emphasis will be placed on interface quality, including roughness, interdiffusion, precise thickness control, and local magnetization.
The project combines in-house and large-scale-facility techniques. Structural analysis will use X-ray scattering, scanning probe microscopy, Atom Probe Tomography, and Rutherford Backscattering. Magnetic and transport measurements will include SQUID magnetometry and cryogenic magnetotransport to probe electric-field-driven magnetoelectric coupling and superconducting spin-valve effects. To map the magnetic depth profile, the project will also use polarized neutron reflectivity and nuclear resonant scattering at major international facilities such as ESRF, DESY, and APS.
The work is embedded in a long-term collaboration with imec Leuven, linking fundamental physics with nanoelectronics and digital technologies. The PhD researcher will join a strong experimental environment with extensive infrastructure for thin-film growth, nanofabrication, spectroscopy, and low-temperature measurements.
Eligible applicants should hold a Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, nanotechnology, or a related field, and have a strong background in experimental solid-state physics. The call highlights excellent academic performance, fluency in English, teamwork, motivation to work in an international research setting, and enthusiasm for experimental campaigns at synchrotrons and neutron sources.
The position is based in Leuven, Belgium. The doctoral programme includes training in management, science communication, and teaching, and the researcher will take on a limited teaching task in Bachelor or Master programmes. Interested candidates should apply via the KU Leuven job portal before the deadline of 2026-10-15.
