Research and Internships

• Project: "Building the Future of Computer Memory: Magnetic Switching Without Magnetic Fields" (General Research)
• Principal Investigator (PI): Professor Micky Holcomb
• Compensation: Paid, volunteer, and course credit opportunities are available. Contact Prof. Holcomb for more information.
• Time Commitment: As desired
• Description: Every smartphone, laptop, and data center depends on computer memory. But future technologies will require memory that is faster, more reliable, and dramatically more energy efficient. While one of our goals is the development of next-generation magnetic memory, the broader research program seeks to uncover new forms of magnetic behavior in oxide materials. Students may investigate phenomena ranging from spontaneous magnetization reversal and interface-driven magnetism to strain-controlled magnetic states in flexible materials. By comparing manganites with related magnetic oxides, researchers hope to determine whether these unusual effects represent isolated curiosities or universal design principles for future spintronic technologies. Some of this project is in collaboration with the University of Delaware. While not required, there may be opportunities for those interested to visit Delaware in the spring and/or summer. Students will mostly do magnetic measurements, though there may be opportunities for the occasional beamline trip to California, or other national facility.
• Opportunity Availability: Academic Year (2026-2027)

External Research Opportunities