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402-0536-00L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-MATL , D-PHYS

Nanomagnetism and Spintronics

Lecturers & Examiners: PD Dr. Alessandro Vindigni, Prof. Dr. Pietro Gambardella
UZH students are not allowed to register this course unit at ETH. They must book the module PHY434 directly at UZH.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:17

Abstract

This course focuses on magnetic phenomena that occur in ultra thin films, heterostructures, and nanomagnets, with emphasis on effects not encountered in bulk materials and on spintronics. The course will provide an introduction to magnetic textures, magnetotransport, charge-spin conversion, spin torques and their application to detect and manipulate the magnetization of spintronic devices.

Objective

Understanding the most important concepts and applications of nanomagnets, including small structures, thin films, and multilayer devices. Being able to utilize and critically assess phenomenological models of magnetic phenomena and spin-dependent transport. Learn how and why magnetic storage, sensors, memories and logic concepts function. Understand and comment scientific articles at the front of research in this area. Learn to condense and present the results of a research articles so that colleagues can understand.

Content

Magnetization, magnetic domains, magnetic anisotropy; noncollinear spin textures in ultrathin magnetic films and multilayers; different types of magnetic couplings; interplay of charge and spin transport; spin torques and magnetization dynamics. Current-induced domain wall motion and magnetization switching. Applications: Magnetic data storage, magnetic memories, spin-based electronic devices.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes will be handed out (in English).

Literature

- M.D. Coey, Magnetism and Magnetic Materials, Cambridge University Press - Magnetic Surfaces, Thin Films and Nanostructures, P. Gambardella, S. Blügel, Springer Handbook of Surface Science - Spintronics Handbook: Spin Transport and Magnetism, Edited By E. Y. Tsymbal and I. Žutić; Routledge.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes
Die Prüfung kann wahlweise in Englisch oder Deutsch abgelegt werden.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Nanomagnetism and Spintronics
**together with University of Zurich**
  • Mon 14:45-17:30 (HCI H 8.1)
3 h weekly

Offered In