Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct hands-on research in magnetic microscopy and explore innovative thermal motion of spin textures.
- Company: Join Loughborough University, a leader in academic research with a collaborative spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holiday allowance, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Make groundbreaking discoveries in physics while working with cutting-edge technology and international partners.
- Qualifications: PhD in physics or material science, with experience in magnetic microscopy and programming skills.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in an inclusive environment that values diverse backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This position is Full Time, Fixed Term. We are looking for a Postdoctoral Researcher with expertise in magnetic microscopy to work on "Thermally-driven motion of spin textures" within the Future Leader Fellowship project led by Dr Naëmi Leo.
This project uses novel localised plasmonic heaters to create fast, efficient, and versatile reconfigurable thermal landscapes controlled by light polarisation, power, and illumination patterns. By creating hybrid devices combining the optical control of thermal gradients with magnetic materials, the post holder is expected to quantify thermal motion of spin textures to deepen our understanding of the underlying driving processes.
The project will be undertaken in the physics department at Loughborough University and involves collaborations with internal colleagues and facilities, as well as with national and international project partners such as EXTREMAG (UK) and Durham University (UK). This project involves using novel hybrid magneto-thermoplasmonic devices to generate thermal gradients under different optical illumination conditions for the controlled motion of spin textures, including domain walls and Skyrmions.
As such, the successful candidate should enjoy challenging hands-on experimental work in the laboratory, with experience in magnetic microscopy via MOKE magnetometry and/or synchrotron x-ray methods, as well as post-experiment image analysis, as evidenced by strong publications. The successful candidate should have completed or be about to obtain a PhD in physics or material science within the field of magnetism or spintronics.
Further desirable experience and skills include solid competency in programming (e.g. Python, Matlab, C++, etc.) for data analysis and control of experimental setups, experience in micromagnetic or multiphysics simulations, and knowledge of various structural and magnetic characterisation techniques and instrumentation (such as nanolithography, magneto-transport, MOKE, AFM, XRD).
The successful candidate should have good interpersonal skills and clear oral and written communication, be able to carry out independent research activities within an international team, and to be willing to travel nationally and internationally to visit collaborators and attend scientific conferences. The post is for a minimum of 24 months (with a possible extension dependent upon performance and available funding).
We aspire to provide bespoke support to physicists and engineers from diverse backgrounds and create an inclusive environment that fosters excellence for all researchers.
For more information on the role please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification.
Our Benefits: At Loughborough, our benefits are designed to support your life inside and outside of work, helping you to thrive and feel valued as part of our community. Examples of our benefits include generous holiday allowance, including 14 university closure days.
Research Associate In Physics employer: Loughborough University
Contact Detail:
Loughborough University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate In Physics
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the physics community, attend seminars, and engage with researchers. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Research Associate role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation showcasing your past research and experiments. This can really impress potential employers and give them a taste of what you can bring to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on articulating your experience with magnetic microscopy and programming skills clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for you. Make sure to tailor your application to highlight your hands-on experimental work and collaborative spirit – it’s what we love to see!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate In Physics
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Research Associate role. Highlight your experience in magnetic microscopy and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our exciting project on thermally-driven motion of spin textures!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this research area and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention your programming skills and any hands-on lab experience.
Showcase Your Publications: If you've got strong publications, make sure to highlight them in your application. We love seeing evidence of your research capabilities, especially in areas related to magnetism or spintronics. It helps us understand your expertise better!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Loughborough University
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of magnetic microscopy and the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, like MOKE magnetometry. Be ready to discuss your previous research and how it relates to the project on thermally-driven motion of spin textures.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your programming skills, especially in Python or Matlab. Think of examples where you've used these skills for data analysis or controlling experimental setups, as this will show you're not just a theoretical physicist but also hands-on.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since good communication is key, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. You might be asked to present your past work, so make sure you can articulate your findings and their significance clearly and confidently.
✨Be a Team Player
Highlight your experience working in international teams and your willingness to collaborate. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others in the lab or during projects, as this role involves collaboration with various partners.
