TRIUMF
Canada's National Laboratory for Particle and Nuclear Physics
STUDENT JOB PROGRAM
Spring 2019 job posting
Job number TR19-1-2

Position Title:

Development of Magnetic Resonance Spectrometer for Spintronics Applications 

Name of Project:

Broadband Radiofrequency Techniques for Investigations of Magnetic Thin Films 

Overview:

The field of spintronics aims to combine the data storage capabilities of magnetic media with the data processing capabilities of the semiconductor industry. As such, the controlled manipulation of a nonequilibrium spin population is required. Data storage relies on orienting the magnetisation of a magnetic bit, while devices making use of giant magnetoresistance (like the magnetic read heads of hard drives) or spin transfer torque effects are based on spin polarised electron currents. Recently, attention has turned to developing ideas and systems based on pure spin currents without any associated charge current.

Generating a spin current (in the absence of a charge current) through spin pumping relies on the precession of the magnetisation induced in a ferromagnet excited by a radiofrequency magnetic field on resonance (FMR). The magnetisation precession is damped via the emission of a polarised spin current into the neighbouring normal metal, which is typically measured as an increase in the FMR linewidth. The goal is to investigate how the magnetic anisotropy and spin pumping efficiency varies with temperature and magnetic field. A bespoke broadband air stripline is being developed, such that in-situ FMR may be combined with 8Li beta detected NMR at TRIUMF. Initially the investigation will focus on artificial heterostructures based on (Y3Fe5O12) / simple metals. Y3Fe5O12 has very low magnetic losses, such that a large number of low loss magnons may be generated and hence an appreciable pure spin current.

Duties:

The project will involve the design of a experimental rig for applying radiofrequency (RF) magnetic fields to a sample of interest. The sample environment will encompass magnetic fields up to 1 Tesla over a temperature range between 2-300 K. Once constructed, the magnetic response of magnetic films of relevance to spin pumping applications will be investigated.

Skills learned during this work experience:

The successful candidate will gain a background in mechanical design, cryogenics, radiofrequency techniques and instrumentation. They will also be introduced to the use of ferromagnetic resonance techniques for characterisation of magnetic heterostructures.

Qualifications:

A third or fourth year undergraduate student in physics or engineering is sought. An aptitude and interest in the design and mechanical assembly of a cryostat insert, electromagnet and ferromagnetic resonance probe is required.

Shiftwork required:

No

Period of work:

Jan - Apr 2019 with possible 4-month extension  
Salary is commensurate with academic progress and previous relevant work experience, and ranges from $ 2080 to $ 2800 per month plus 4% vacation pay.
TRIUMF pays round-trip airfare (this does not apply to Vancouver/Victoria students); for Vancouver Island students, TRIUMF will pay ferry costs.

TRIUMF is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace, and we welcome applications from all qualified undergraduate students as defined below:

  • Canadian undergraduate students or Canadian Permanent Resident undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited post secondary institution in Canada (or outside Canada) who are studying in a vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate.
  • Foreign full-time undergraduate students currently enrolled at a designated learning institution at the post-secondary level, and who are studying in an academic, vocational or professional training program that leads to a degree, diploma or certificate that is at least six months in duration, and who have a valid Canadian study permit which allows for employment off-campus, and who have applied for a Social Insurance Number
  • Foreign undergraduate students enrolled in a recognized undergraduate program of study abroad who have accepted, or are in the process of accepting, an "Invitation to Apply" for a work permit under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/iec/apply.asp

Applications must be received at TRIUMF by 4:00pm Pacific time on 2018-09-24.

To apply for any of the job postings, you must submit one application for each and every job for which you wish to be considered. Please combine all documents into one PDF for each job. All applications can be attached to one email in PDF format. Please do not send electronic documents in formats other than PDF. Please save the PDF as lastname-job number (eg Smith-15.pdf)

    An application consists of a:
  • Covering letter
  • Resume
  • Transcript of all post secondary grades (unofficial copies are accepted)
  • in addition, an online application form must be filled out for each job
    Applications must also clearly indicate:
  • The number of academic terms completed (i.e. terms, semesters, or quarters)
  • The number of work terms completed (or the equivalent)
  • The TRIUMF Job Number must be clearly stated in the covering letter

Students within an university co-op program MUST apply for TRIUMF jobs through their university co-op education office.

Email to:

student@triumf.ca

Mail to:

TRIUMF Student Program
Job Number TR19-1-2
4004 Wesbrook Mall
Vancouver, B.C.
V6T 2A3

No phone calls please. TRIUMF wishes to thank all applicants for their interest, and regrets that only those being considered will be contacted.

TRIUMF is located on the campus of the University of British Columbia.
For more information, visit our web site
http://www.triumf.ca