This research program aims at the investigation of nonthermal effects of light on nanomagnets in order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of physical mechanisms leading to a highly efficient ultrafast (10^-12 seconds and faster) optical control of magnetism at the nanoscale. Such scientific breakthroughs are expected to develop novel technology for unprecedented fast (THz) opto-magnetic recording.

Ultrafast lasers are now so effective that they can steer chemical reactions, control the energy flow in biological objects, manipulate (quasi)particles and trigger different kinds of phase transitions, all on a femtosecond time scale. Efficient, ultrafast and nonthermal laser control of magnetism remains a challenge and raises many fundamental questions concerning the mechanisms that are responsible for the nonthermal effect of photons on spins and ultrafast laser induced changes of magnetic order. In these projects we are planning to address these fundamental questions of femtosecond opto-magnetism using novel experimental approaches for both the excitation and observation of magnetism on an ultrafast timescale. In particular, this involves: a) the development of coherent quantum control of spins, where specially shaped laser pulses steer the spins into a desired state due to the effects of quantum interference; b) exploring the ultrafast response of magnetic order on a nano-scale with advanced optical and X-ray techniques.

References:
A.V. Kimel, A. Kirilyuk, P. A. Usachev, A. Balbashov, R. V. Pisarev and Th. Rasing, Nature 435 655 (2005).
F. Hansteen, A. V. Kimel, A. Kirilyuk and Th. Rasing, Phys. Rev. Lett. 95, 047402 (2005).
C. D. Stanciu, F. Hansteen, A. V. Kimel, A. Kirilyuk, A. Tsukamoto, A. Itoh, and Th. Rasing, Phys. Rev. Lett. 99, 047601 (2007)

Requirements (PhD projects)

For these challenging projects, we are looking for enthusiastic physicists (M.Sc. or equivalent level) with affinity for experimental physics and an interest in optics. Experience with (one of) the following experimental techniques is a plus: quantum optics, nanomagnetism, ultrafast lasers, X-ray techniques. Good knowledge of English, both written and oral, is compulsory.

Conditions of employment

When filling a PhD position at the Radboud University Nijmegen, you will get a contract for 4 years. During the first year the gross salary is approximately 2000 euro per month, increasing to 2400 euro during the fourth year.

People interested in these positions should send their letter of application and CV to
Dr. A.V. Kimel (a.kimel@science.ru.nl),
Dr. A. Kirilyuk (a.kirilyuk@science.ru.nl) or
Prof.dr. Th. Rasing (th.rasing@science.ru.nl)