Thesis: Advanced Electrical and Magnetic Characterization of Novel Spintronic Materials and Devices
Job Description
Developing innovative technology solutions and bridging the gap between research and industrial application – that is our mission at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS. Our interdisciplinary teams leverage expertise in photonic microsystems, nanoelectronics, and wireless communication to create cutting-edge technologies for global markets, including automotive, industrial automation, and aerospace.
The »Spin-Based Concepts« (SBC) group is at the forefront of spintronics R&D. We focus on the development of high-performance magnetic sensors (TMR) and next-generation non-volatile memory (MRAM), as well as novel computing concepts based on magnetic domain walls (Racetrack Memory) and Magnetic Tunnel Junctions (MTJs). Our core strength lies in the precise engineering of complex magnetic heterostructures, primarily MTJs in various configurations. We specialize in the deposition of nanometric and subnanometric thin layers to create functional stacks comprising up to 40 individual layers. What sets us apart is our ability to develop and characterize these materials on an industrial 300mm wafer scale, providing a direct pathway from fundamental materials science to high-volume semiconductor manufacturing.
As part of our team, you will contribute to the magnetic and electrical analysis of these stacks at the blanket film level, helping to shape the hardware foundations for Future Computing and Advanced Sensing applications
Be part of change
- Electrical Characterization: Perform transport measurements on advanced MTJ stacks via current-in-plane-tunneling (CIPT).
- Magnetic Analysis: Characterize single films and complex stacks using vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) and ferromagnetic resonance (FMR).
- Metrology & Analytics: Support wafer-level metrology (thickness, particles, resistivity) and contribute to lab analytics (SEM, TEM, XRD, etc.).
- Scientific Research: You conduct literature studies on recent realizations of spintronic devices (STT, SOT, Racetrack Memory, TMR Sensors, etc.).
- Data Correlation: Summarize and correlate measurement data with thin-film process variations, identifying trends and process dependencies.
The tasks can also be carried out within the framework of a Master's or Diploma thesis.
What you contribute
- Academic Background: You are enrolled in a Master's or Diploma program in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Microsystems Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Core Interest: You have a solid understanding of solid-state physics and magnetism. If you find magnetic phenomena and tunneling effects fascinating, you'll fit right in.
- Analytical Mindset: You enjoy working with data. Basic experience with tools like Python or Origin is a plus.
- Experimental Curiosity: You have a "hands-on" attitude and enjoy working in a high-tech lab environment. We will provide extensive training on specialized equipment like VSM, FMR, and CIPT.
- Precision & Diligence: Working on a 300mm wafer scale requires a structured and careful approach, which you should bring to the team.
- Communication / Language Skills: As we work in an international and interdisciplinary environment, a good command of English is essential. You have negotiation-level English proficiency, both spoken and written, and can confidently navigate a scientific environment.
- Curiosity over Experience: We value a genuine interest in the subject and a reliable approach to experimental work over prior experience with specific tools.
- Precision & Patience: Working with advanced thin films requires getting it right — you enjoy staying organized and working carefully.
- Open Communication: In our interdisciplinary team, collaboration is key. You aren't afraid to ask questions or share new ideas.
- Can-Do Attitude: You are excited to learn how to bridge the gap between physics and real-world technology and thrive in a supportive environment that fosters your development.
What we offer
We offer you an exciting topic and individual support in the preparation of your thesis by experienced employees. A motivated and dynamic team awaits you in a very well equipped, research and development environment. In addition, we offer you connecting points within the framework of your studies or your career entry, e.g. a following PhD, the beginning of your scientific career as a junior scientist at Fraunhofer IPMS or becoming an engineer. We support you in this process!
The scientific work will be carried out in the business unit/research group NGC at Fraunhofer IPMS in Dresden. The examination takes place via affiliation with a German university of applied sciences and is governed by the respective state university law.
The weekly working time is to be agreed individually. The position is temporary for the time of the scientific work. The duration is flexible according to agreement and possible study guidelines. We value and promote the diversity of our employees' skills and therefore welcome all applications – regardless of age, gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, sexual orientation and identity. Severely disabled persons are given preference in the event of equal suitability.
With its focus on developing key technologies that are vital for the future and enabling the commercial utilization of this work by business and industry, Fraunhofer plays a central role in the innovation process. As a pioneer and catalyst for groundbreaking developments and scientific excellence, Fraunhofer helps shape society now and in the future.
Ready for a change? Then apply now and make a difference! Once we have received your online application, you will receive an automatic confirmation of receipt. We will then get back to you as soon as possible and let you know what happens next.
Contact
Mr. Eric Graebe
Human Resources
Phone: +49 (0)351 8823 1505
Mr. Christoph Durner
Specialty Department
Phone: +49 (0)351 2607 3215
Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems IPMS
Requisition Number: 84541