About Ghent University

The Ghent University is one of Europe’s largest and most research-intensive universities, with more than 15,000 staff members and a strong focus on education, research, and societal impact.

It offers state-of-the-art academic programmes across 11 faculties and more than 85 departments and is widely recognized for its international research environment.

Project Overview

THERMAGINE – ERC Consolidator Grant Project

This PhD position is part of the THERMAGINE project, which investigates:

How thermal fluctuations drive magnetization switching in nanoscale magnetic materials, and how this process can be engineered for real-world applications.

The research focuses on combining:

• Ferromagnetic materials
• Antiferromagnetic materials
• Multilayer heterostructures

With applications in:

• Magnetic particle imaging (MPI)
• Magnetic hyperthermia for cancer treatment

Research Environment

The project is hosted by the DynaMat group at Ghent University.

The group specializes in:

• Nanoscale magnetization dynamics
• Advanced micromagnetic simulations (e.g. MuMax)
• Integrated experimental and computational research

The environment is:

• International
• Interdisciplinary
• Highly collaborative
• Experiment–theory integrated

Research Focus

As a PhD researcher, you will focus on experimental nanomagnetism, specifically:

Core Experimental Work

• NV (nitrogen-vacancy) microscopy on individual nanostructures
• Measurement of magnetization dynamics at the nanoscale
• Sample preparation and nanostructure characterization

Data & Analysis

• Experimental data analysis and interpretation
• Development of measurement protocols
• Correlation of experimental results with theoretical models

Collaboration

You will work closely with:

• Simulation researchers
• Sample fabrication teams
• Theoretical modelling experts

Responsibilities

You will:

• Conduct original research leading to a PhD degree
• Perform NV microscopy experiments
• Develop and optimize experimental methods
• Analyze nanoscale magnetic systems
• Present results at international conferences
• Publish in peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to collaborative group research

Candidate Profile

Required

You should have (or be close to obtaining):

• Master’s degree in:
  • Physics
  • Applied Physics
  • Materials Science
  • Or closely related field
• Strong interest in:Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Experimental physics
  • Magnetism
  • Nanoscience
• Ability to work independently
• Good communication skills in English
• Motivation to pursue a PhD

Preferred (“Nice to have”)

• Background in:
  • Nanomagnetism
  • Spintronics
  • Magnetic materials
• Experience with:Scientific programming (Python or similar)
  • Magnetic characterization techniques
  • NV microscopy or scanning probe methods
  • Nanofabrication or cleanroom work
• Data analysis experience
• Prior publications or conference presentations
• Dutch language proficiency

What We Offer

• Full-time doctoral fellowship (100%)
• Initial contract: 12 months
• Extension: up to 48 months total (subject to evaluation)
• Start date: 1 September 2026 (earliest)

Benefits

Staff at Ghent University receive:

• 36 days annual leave (full-time equivalent)
• Fixed bridge holidays
• Bicycle allowance
• Eco vouchers
• Training and career development opportunities
• International research environment

Application Information

Submit by 1 July 2026 to:

???? jonathan.leliaert@ugent.be

Required documents:

• Curriculum vitae
• Motivation letter
• Copy of Master’s diploma (if available)

Contact

For questions:

Prof. Dr. Jonathan Leliaert
???? jonathan.leliaert@ugent.be

Institutional Values

Ghent University promotes:

• Equal opportunity employment
• Diversity and inclusion
• Open, international research participation