Two PhD students on development and application of advanced computational methods for simulations of magnons in altermagnets
The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2300 people.
For the Laboratory for Materials Simulations (LMS) of the PSI Center for Scientific Computing, Theory, and Data (CSD) we are looking for:
Your tasks
* PhD Thesis in the field of chiral magnonics for altermagnets using advanced computational methods
* Develop novel, accurate, and fully first-principles computational methods to model the ground-state and excited-state properties of altermagnets, with a focus on spin waves (magnons)
* Apply these advanced computational techniques, including density-functional theory with on-site U and inter-site V Hubbard corrections (DFT+U+V), and its time-dependent extension TDDFT+U+V, for simulations of magnons in altermagnetic materials
* Collaborate with experimental partners at the Paul Scherrer Institute to validate computational predictions using world-class large-scale facilities
* Use the electronic-structure package Quantum ESPRESSO and the AiiDA infrastructure for simulations and data analysis
* Support teaching activities at EPFL or ETH Zurich
Your profile
* Master of Science degree in physics, materials science, or chemistry, with a focus on numerical simulations
* Prior experience with computational project work is essential
* Prior experience with density functional theory is desirable
* Proficiency in Fortran and Python programming languages is required
* Familiarity with other programming languages is a plus
* Strong written and oral communication skills in English are necessary
* The ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with both theoretical and experimental partners is essential
We offer
Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.
For further information, please contact Dr. Iurii Timrov, email: iurii.timrov@psi.ch
Please submit your application online by 15 June 2025 (including CV, motivation letter, copy of BSc and MSc certificates with grades, addresses of referees (2 min, 4 max), preferred starting date) for the position as a PhD student (index no. 7300-01).
Paul Scherrer Institute, Human Resources Management, Robin Schmid, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland
www.psi.ch
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