INTERVIEW

Where do you come from?

I came from Pakistan.

What are your main professional concerns?

I want to become a scientist of Nanophysics and pursue my career in science.

What does your research consist of?

I will work on the Spin and Angle-Resolved Photoemission Spectroscopy (Spin-ARPES) to the study of the electronic structure and emergent phenomena in two dimensional (2D) materials. The research lines of the Spin ARPES studies are related to some of the most relevant current topics in condensed matter physics and materials science, and that have to do with the study of the electronic origin of emerging phenomena arising from the interplay between low dimensionality and strong spin-orbit coupling. This research is carried out both with in-house experiments at the Spin-ARPES laboratory at IMDEA Nanociencia and in the some of the outstanding ARPES beamlines in Synchrotron Radiation facilities as Alba (Barcelona), Elettra (Trieste, Italy), Soleil (Paris) or Bessy (Berlin). Our investigations are complemented with the study of magnetic properties by X-ray magnetic circular dichroism (XMCD), structural characterization (collaboration with STM groups at IMDEA) and electronic structure calculations in collaboration with different theory groups.

What power does science have to transform the world?

Scientific knowledge allows us to develop new technologies, solve practical problems, and make informed decisions, both individually and collectively. Because its products are so useful, the process of science is intertwined with those applications: New scientific knowledge may lead to new applications.

Where do you find inspiration?

Scientific investigations may be inspired by many different factors. The early stages of an investigation often involve making observations, asking questions, sharing ideas and data, and learning what’s already been discovered about the topic.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

“As a recent graduate in physics and having two Master’s degrees in the field of Condensed Matter and Nanophysics and General Physics’’, respectively: I am now just embarking on my professional career. I have a very clear vision and in the next five years, I envision a path of continuous personal and professional growth in the field of Nanophysics. I am passionate about this research and I see myself honing these skills to become an expert in my research field.

Why IMDEA Nanociencia?

I want to do research here because I’ve heard great things about the research culture and the supportive work environment. I believe that working in a positive and collaborative atmosphere will allow me to perform at my best and contribute meaningfully to the team. Pursuing this doctoral research at IMDEA Nanociencia aligns with my personal goals and aspirations. It provides me with the necessary tools and knowledge to achieve my long-term objectives, whether they involve making a difference in my community, advancing in my career, or pursuing further academic and research endeavors.

I’m drawn to this position because of the opportunity for growth and advancement. I’m eager to learn new skills and take on new challenges, and I see this project as a perfect fit for my career goals.

More information on the IDEAL Fellowships Programme 

The IDEAL Fellowships Programme is supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND. Grant agreement ID: 101034431.