Designing Hybrid Heterostructures with Molecular Polarization–Controlled Magnetoelectric Coupling

This project explores the frontier between organic electronics and spintronics. By combining organic glasses along with magnetic thin films, novel magnetoelectric (ME) heterostructures are aimed. These are envisaged to allow novel and energy efficient electronic devices.

On the organic side, the focus will be on small-molecule organic layers with giant spontaneous polarization, arising from the alignment of molecules with large permanent dipole moments. On the magnetic side, both metallic/oxide ferromagnetic (FM) thin films grown by physical vapor deposition methods will be aimed. Posteriorly, we will investigate how such strongly polar layers interact with ultrathin FM layers, i.e. ME coupling, with the aim of establishing a direct route to read out the polarization via ME coupling. Demonstrating such readout would be a fundamental step toward organic-based hybrid devices.

The project will test different molecular and magnetic layers, tuning dipole strength and magnetoelectric interaction. In a second stage, we will explore how the polar state of organic film can be dynamically controlled through external stimuli (thermal, optical, electric fields…). This tunability will provide insights of switching mechanisms and stability, crucial for device functionality. Finally, the aim is to assess the feasibility of using these hybrid organic/ferromagnetic structures to develop memristive-like elements for neuromorphic computing. By bridging molecular design, thin-film engineering, and ME phenomena, this project addresses both fundamental physics and future technological applications.

To fulfill this project, a broad set of characterization techniques will be employed, including Kelvin probe force microscopy and electrical methods for determining organic thin films’ surface potentials. Magnetic and ME properties will be probed by vibrating sample magnetometry, magneto-optical Kerr effect, and magnetic force microscopy.

The candidate should have a strong background in materials science and solid-state physics, ideally with foundational knowledge of advanced materials such as organic semiconductor glasses, ferroic and polar systems, and magnetism.

Experience, or strong interest, in thin-film deposition and materials characterization (structural, thermal, magnetic, electrical) will be an advantage and will support the development of magnetoelectric expertise during the PhD. Curiosity, adaptability, collaboration, and problem-solving skills are essential, as the project focuses on designing and testing advanced materials beyond the current state of the art.

Proficiency in data analysis, basic modelling, and scientific communication is required for interpreting results, troubleshooting experiments, and disseminating findings through publications and presentations. Success in this interdisciplinary environment will also depend on initiative, independent learning, and effective teamwork.

This project unites two research groups at UAB Physics department, merging complementary expertise in thermal, electrical, and magnetic properties of materials to drive innovation from thin films to nanostructures. We focus on designing, synthesizing, and characterizing advanced materials with tailored properties for engineering applications.

By controlling structure at the nanoscale, we create materials with enhanced thermal, magnetic, or electrical performance. We study organic and inorganic systems: semiconductors, ferroics, and thermoelectrics, using both custom-built and state-of-the-art techniques. Each class of material opens opportunities to uncover new physical phenomena and functionalities.

Sustainability and energy efficiency are central to our approach, guiding material development and application. While rooted in fundamental physics, we place particular emphasis on nanomaterials for energy harvesting, sensing, and brain-inspired memory and computing devices.