Our research on magnetism focuses on the understanding of the equilibrium and dynamic properties of magnetic materials and magnetic structures. These include thin films, multilayers, disordered alloys, ferrimagnets, ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. This broad array of materials classes finds applications in magnetic data storage, data processing, spintronics, sensors and permanent magnets for use in vehicles and wind turbines.
Using combined computational methods from the electronic structure (through the use of density functional theory), through to the micromagnetic via so-called atomistic spin dynamics, we have developed theoretical understanding in the fields of ultrafast spin dynamics, all-optical switching, optical interconnects, relaxation dynamics in nanostructures and strain-controlled dynamics in composite multiferroics. The use of such a range of computational and theoretical methods allows us to make predictions, comparisons and validate experimental measurements.
The group collaborates widely with academic groups and national facilities and institutions on a broad variety of projects. If you are interested in collaborating with the group, please get in touch with the academic lead.
Topics of interest
- THz-induced spin dynamics
- Ultrafast magnetism
- Optical switching
- Multiscale modelling
- Relaxation processes in magnetic systems
- Antiferromagnetic materials
- GPU computing
- Atomistic spin dynamics
- Micromagnetics
- Ab-initio calculations
Core group members
Dr Sergiu Ruta
Postdoctoral researchers
Dr Joel Hirst
PhD students
Ms Sian Gleadhall