Postdoc Research Associate in Experimental Quantum Materials
Application is invited for a postdoc research associate position Dr. Xiaoshan Xu’s lab (https://xiaoshanxu.unl.edu/) in the Department of Physics and Astronomy in University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL).
The past decades’ advancement of nanoscience and technology naturally leads materials research to the quantum regime. Revolutionary quantum technology, such as quantum information and quantum computing, relies on mesoscopic or macroscopic quantum phenomena to realize control of individual quantum states. Quantum materials exhibit such phenomena that cannot be described using the traditional picture of single particles in potentials. These materials include quantum magnets, superconductors, materials with non-trivial topology, etc.
The postdoc researcher is expected to work on exploring quantum materials in novel oxide and organic thin films and their heterostructures. This includes thin film growth using pulsed laser deposition (oxides) and thermal evaporation (organic); characterizations using synchrotron and neutron user facilities as well as lab-based measurements; and fabrication of prototypical devices.
The following qualifications are sought for the applicants:
(1) a strong academic background and knowledge in condensed matter physics,
(2) experience in thin film growth,
(3) experience in spintronic research.
Good communication (oral and writing) skills and excellent inter-personal skills are also desired since the postdoc researcher is expected to collaborate with many research groups and work with/mentor graduate and undergraduate students.
To apply for the position, interested candidates should send CV and arrange three letters of recommendation to Xiaoshan.xu@unl.edu.
Graduate Research Assistants
Our group focuses on exploring new materials in thin film form and interfaces for their novel magnetoelectric properties, particularly in complex oxides and organic semiconductor materials.
Our research interests are
- single phase materials (thin films): growth of new materials, crystal structure, magnetic structure, ferroelectricity, multiferroicity, magnetoelectric effect
- interface and heterostructures: magnetoresistance, resistance switching, magnetoelectric effect.
The experimental methods we use include
- pulsed laser deposition, thermal evaporation for thin film prepation;
- synchrontron and neutron diffraction and spectrosocopy (at national user facilities) for characterization of fundamental properties;
- magneto transport, magneto optics.
We train our graduate students systematically and help them overcome the gap between learning principles from the textbook and creating knowledge in cutting edge research. See our learning page for more information.
For current students who are interested in the work described above, please contact Prof. Xu for the graduate research assistant opening.
For perspective students, application for graduate studentship can be found at the Department Website.
Undergraduate Research Assistants
Our group regularly hosts undergraduate research assistant(s). Please contact Prof. Xu to discuss the research in our group and your interests.