PhD Studentship: EPSRC: Spin-Lattice Dynamics in Advanced Magnetic Materials The University of Manchester
Advanced magnetic materials provide a versatile platform for exploring emergent spin phenomena and developing next-generation technologies. This 3.5-year PhD studentship focuses on using atomistic spin-lattice dynamics simulations—a computational framework that combines atomistic spin dynamics (magnons) with molecular dynamics (phonons)—to investigate innovative ways of manipulating spins across various magnetic systems.
Systems of interest include two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials, which offer several key advantages over traditional bulk materials, such as interface and proximity effects that can be exploited for device functionality and reduced electrical current requirements. These properties make 2D magnetic materials highly promising for energy-efficient computing and storage technologies. The project aims to provide novel insights for exploring phonons and emergent phenomena in future spintronic and quantum technologies.
Key Details:
Project Start Date: October 2026 or January 2027.
Position Type: Full-time PhD Studentship (3.5 years).
Funding Availability: Primarily open to UK Home applicants. EU students with settled/pre-settled status and international students may apply, with eligibility determined on a case-by-case basis.
Collaboration: The successful candidate will benefit from strong national and international research collaborations throughout the project.
Application Recommendation: Early application is advised as the posting may be removed prior to the listed deadline.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 Honours degree or a Master’s degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering discipline.
Open to UK Home students, as well as EU students with settled/pre-settled status and international applicants evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Required expertise/skills
Strong academic foundation in physics, materials science, computer science, or a related science/engineering field.
Background or strong interest in computational physics, spin dynamics, molecular dynamics, or quantum/spintronic technologies.
Motivation and capability to conduct advanced computational research and work within collaborative research networks.
Salary details Annual tax-free stipend set at the UKRI rate (£20,780 for 2025/26, subject to annual uplift) plus full coverage of tuition fees.
Application Deadline 15th October 2026