Spintronics has shown how the electron spin can be generated, transported, and converted into electrical signals by exploiting spin–charge interconversion phenomena (e.g., the spin Hall and Rashba–Edelstein effects). However, in CMOS-compatible semiconductor platforms the spin–charge conversion efficiency can be a limiting factor. In recent years, orbitronics has been emerging, where the relevant state variable is the carriers’ orbital angular momentum (OAM). In some materials—including group-IV semiconductors on which CMOS technology is based—charge-to-OAM conversion via the orbital Hall effect (OHE) can become remarkably efficient, opening prospects for low-power, silicon-integrable devices and for the development of new functionalities. This thesis addresses the theoretical and computational side of the problem, aiming to extract key parameters and design guidelines for bulk materials and nanostructures in a clearly device-oriented context.

The thesis work will involve developing and applying a simulation pipeline to:

1. compute band structures (bulk and low-dimensional) and spin and orbital textures in group-IV semiconductors;
2. estimate parameters for OAM and spin generation and transport (conversion efficiencies, anisotropies, and dependencies on strain, confinement, and doping);
3. produce comparative maps of materials and architectures that are promising for spintronics, orbitronics, and spin–orbitronics.

In the thesis work, carried out under the supervision of Prof. Carlo Zucchetti within the research activities of the SemiSpin laboratory, the student will:

1. use and develop multi-band models and simulation tools to quantitatively analyze spin–orbitronic properties;
2. learn how to connect numerical results to figures of merit relevant for device design (trends, sensitivity to technological parameters, and optimization criteria);
3. gain methodology and independence in the critical analysis of results (validation, comparison with the literature, physical interpretation, and proposing improvements).

During the thesis, the skills acquired by the student will not remain confined to the project, but will form a solid scientific and professional background, valuable both in academia and for highly qualified positions in the Hi-Tech job market. The expected duration is about 9 months, with flexible yet continuous commitment (compatible with the student’s academic requirements). Interested students can contact Prof. Carlo Zucchetti.