NV-center microscopy of spin wave beams

A key contender for future energy-efficient computing and signal processing devices is based on the manipulation of magnons or spin-waves, which are the elementary excitations of magnetic materials. Magnons can be manipulated on a broad range of the microwave spectrum at both room and low temperatures, and are therefore of interest for 5G/6G applications [1]. Besides, a wide variety of non-reciprocal effects inherent to spin dynamics offers promising opportunities for the miniaturization of analog signal processing components such as microwave isolators, circulator and directional couplers [2]. Furthermore, new functionalities are emerging from non-boolean and wave-based computing concepts, where both amplitude and phase of spin waves are considered as new degrees of freedom for encoding the information [3]. For all these reasons, spin-wave devices are now recognized as a credible beyond-CMOS technology.
The ability to visualize and manipulate coherent spin-wave transport is crucial for the development of magnonic devices. Recent studies demonstrated the possibility to image magnetization dynamics via NV magnetometry with unprecedented sensitivity and spatial resolution [5, 6]. However, research on spatially resolved spin-waves is at a very early stage, and constitutes mostly proof-of-concept measurement obtained on a home-built system at comparably low frequencies (i.e. below 3GHz). The purpose of this project is to construct an integrated probing scheme for QZabre commercialized NV center microscope (https://qzabre.com/en) that simplifies the access for non-expert users, and with the capacity to image magnetization dynamics at the nanoscale on a broad frequency and applied field range.

The PhD student will be working in close collaboration between IMT Atlantique and Qzabre, led respectively by Dr. Vincent Vlaminck, who brings a long-term experience in spin-wave spectroscopy, and Dr. Andrea Morales, who is a pioneer in commercialization of scanning NV magnetometry. This partnership combines two expert-level complementary skillsets to lead the development of a new measurement scheme.

IMT Atlantique, internationally recognized for the quality of its research, is a leading general engineering school under the aegis of the Ministry of Industry and Digital Technology, ranked in the three main international rankings (THE, SHANGHAI, QS). Located on three campuses, Brest, Nantes and Rennes, IMT Atlantique aims to combine digital technology and energy to transform society and industry through training, research and innovation. It aims to be the leading French higher education and research institution in this field on an international scale. With 290 researchers and permanent lecturers, 1000 publications and 18 M€ of contracts, it supervises 2300 students each year and its training courses are based on cutting-edge research carried out within 6 joint research units: GEPEA, IRISA, LATIM, LABSTICC, LS2N and SUBATECH.
The proposed thesis is part of the research activities of the Magnonic team within the Microwave department. The scientific activities of this department are related to the propagation of electromagnetic waves, and concern mainly the modelling, design, construction and characterization of high-frequency signal processing devices, as well as original propagation media for their applications in various communications systems

We are looking for resourceful candidates with sharp written and oral communication skills that are used to carrying out technical tasks autonomously. Candidates must possess a Master in physics or in engineering prior to the start of the PhD. Preferences will be given to candidates demonstrating proficiency in object–oriented programming, combined with meticulous craftsmanship to handle delicate experiments.