Postdoc in extraordinary magnetometry using high-mobility semiconductors - DTU Energy

Do you want to contribute to a future where we can use high-mobility materials to understand diseases in the human brain by measuring the tiny magnetic fields created by neurons in the brain? At DTU we are targeting exactly this, and we are looking for a dedicated postdoc to carry out research in high-performance extraordinary magnetoresistance and Hall magnetometers based on high-mobility semiconductors.

It is possible to get a deeper understanding of how the brain functions in a non-invasive way through sensing the tiny magnetic fields produced by neuronal currents. Today, this need is primarily met by quantum sensors that must be operated at cryogenic temperatures, which greatly increases the complexity and cost of making such measurements. Therefore, research on alternative methods to detect tiny magnetic fields are a top priority.

In a Novo Nordisk Foundation sponsored project, we aim to create magnetic sensors with picotesla sensitivity and use these sensors to map neuron activity at room-temperature. As part of this large project, we are looking for a postdoc to help us fabricate and characterize high-mobility magnetoresistive devices and turn these into high-performing magnetometers.

Responsibilities and qualifications 
The primary tasks will be:

• Batch fabrication of extraordinary magnetoresistive devices from high-mobility III/V semiconductors with novel geometric designs.
• Magnetotransport characterization of the devices.
• Control the trajectory of electrons in condensed matter. 
• Assess the potential of the new magnetoresistance class for highly sensitive magnetometers.

You will work in a large team and must therefore both thrive with team-based research as well as contribute to a productive and pleasant research environment. During the project, you will work closely together with colleagues in theory who propose optimized designs for your devices, and both receive and provide help to fellow colleagues performing the experiments. You will also have the opportunity to carry out your own simulations with our numerical model.

Qualified applicants must have:

• Extensive experience with cleanroom fabrication of electrical devices based on high-mobility III/V semiconductors.
• High level of understanding of material science and electrical transport physics.
• Experience with electrical characterization of devices, ideally low-noise characterization of magnetometers.
• A strong drive to move the frontiers of science.
• Structured work attitude and ability to plan and carry out sophisticated research activities. 
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken. 

As a formal qualification, you must hold a PhD degree (or equivalent). 

We offer
DTU is a leading technical university globally recognized for the excellence of its research, education, innovation and scientific advice. We offer a rewarding and challenging job in an international environment. We strive for academic excellence in an environment characterized by collegial respect and academic freedom tempered by responsibility. 

Salary and terms of employment 
The appointment will be based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations. The allowance will be agreed upon with the relevant union.

The period of employment is 2 years. The expected start date is 1 July 2026, or according to mutual agreement. The position is a full-time position.

You can read more about career paths at DTU here.

Further information 
Further information may be obtained from Senior Researcher Dennis Christensen, dechr@dtu.dk, +45 20961946.

You can read more about our department DTU Energy at www.energy.dtu.dk/english

If you are applying from abroad, you may find useful information on working in Denmark and at DTU at DTU – Moving to Denmark.

Application procedure 
Your complete online application must be submitted no later than 27 March 2026 (23:59 Danish time).

Applications must be submitted as one PDF file containing all materials to be given consideration. To apply, please open the link "Apply now", fill out the online application form, and attach all your materials in English in one PDF file. The file must include:

• Application (cover letter)
• CV
• Academic Diplomas (MSc/PhD – in English)
• List of publications 

Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, disability, race, religion or ethnic background are encouraged to apply. As DTU works with research in critical technology, which is subject to special rules for security and export control, open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates for the position.

The Department of Energy Conversion and Storage (DTU Energy) focuses on research and development of functional materials, components, and systems for sustainable energy technologies. The technologies include fuel cells, electrolysis, power-to-x, batteries, and carbon capture. The research is based on strong competences on electrochemistry, atomic scale and multi-physics modelling, autonomous materials discovery, materials processing, and structural analyses. We also focus on educating engineering students at all levels, ranging from BSc, MSc, PhD to lifelong learning students. We have about 300 dedicated employees. Read more about us at www.energy.dtu.dk.

Technology for people
DTU develops technology for people. With our international elite research and study programmes, we are helping to create a better world and to solve the global challenges formulated in the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals. Hans Christian Ørsted founded DTU in 1829 with a clear mission to develop and create value using science and engineering to benefit society. That mission lives on today. DTU has 13,500 students and 6,000 employees. We work in an international atmosphere and have an inclusive, evolving, and informal working environment. DTU has campuses in all parts of Denmark and in Greenland, and we collaborate with the best universities around the world.