Objective
Research objectives and content
The field of surface magnetism has expanded rapidly in the last decade. Novel magnetic properties Have been theoretically predicted and experimentally verified for ultra-thin films, surfaces and interfaces. It has been shown that these magnetic properties are critically dependent on surface structure. The aim of this project is to combine surface analysis with magnetic measurement techniques to investigate the interdependence of ultra-thin film structure/morphology and magnetic behaviour. Ultra-thin metal films will be grown and characterised in ultra-high vacuum. Nano-scale chemical-selective imaging will be developed to investigate interface effects such as substrate segregation. The magnetic properties of the films will also be studied in-situ using Magneto-Optic Kerr Effect (MOKE) and Kerr microscopy. Films will be capped for ex-situ non-linear MOKE and magnetisation measurements. The influence of capping layers on film structure/morphology and magnetic properties will be investigated in-situ.
Training content (objective, benefit and expected impact)
The training involved in the project will allow the candidate to develop and complement his experience in surface
analysis methods with a range of thin film magnetic measurement and surface analysis techniques. These will include chemical-selective imaging, linear and non-linear MOKE, magnetic imaging and thin film magnetic measurements. The candidate will gain valuable insight into the interplay between surface magnetism and structure.
Links with industry / industrial relevance (22)
The host group has links with several companies actively involved in surface magnetism research involving local-probe techniques. Among these are IBM, Siemens, Philips and Omicron.
Fields of science
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
RGI - Research grants (individual fellowships)Coordinator
6525 ED Nijmegen
Netherlands