Gabriella AnderssonView profile
Professor
Professor Gabriella Andersson is a leading materials physicist at Uppsala University , serving as Professor of Materials Physics within the Department of Physics and Astronomy. She has held numerous leadership roles including Deputy Head (2015-2020), Section Dean of Physics (2020-2023), and Director of Studies for the doctoral program in physics since July 2023. Education & Qualifications: FD (PhD) in Physics Docent in Physics Excellent Teacher Award (2013) Research Focus: Professor Andersson's research centers on the magnetic properties of thin films, multilayers, and nanostructures. Her work particularly emphasizes magneto-optical domain imaging using Kerr microscopy and the fine-tuning of magnetic properties through atomic-level engineering. She investigates how combinations of elements can create tailored magnetic effects, focusing on applications in micro- and nanometer-scale materials. Research Methodology: Her experimental approach includes sample fabrication using combinatorial sputtering and characterization through X-ray diffraction, magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE), and neutron scattering techniques. She has developed expertise in strain engineering and interface control to manipulate magnetic anisotropy and domain structures. Key Research Themes: Magnetism in amorphous and crystalline thin films Exchange coupling in magnetic multilayers Magnetic anisotropy engineering Domain imaging and magnetization dynamics Rare-earth-lean magnetic materials All-optical switching phenomena Scientific Recognition: Excellent Teacher Award (2013) Professor of Materials Physics (2015) Coordinated VR Graduate School in Materials Science (2008-2015) Funding & Grants: Her research has been supported by prestigious organizations including the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, the Royal Physiographic Society of Lund, Magnus Bergvall Foundation, Göran Gustafsson Foundation, STINT, Carl Tryggers Foundation, and the Swedish Research Council (Vetenskapsrådet). Teaching & Supervision: Professor Andersson teaches undergraduate courses in mechanics, electromagnetism, and measurement technology. She has coordinated the VR graduate school in materials science and serves as director of studies for the doctoral program in physics. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes activating problem-solving exercises and has contributed to educational literature on physics education. Laboratory & Facilities: Her research is conducted at the Ångström Laboratory, one of Europe's most advanced materials research facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art deposition systems, magnetic characterization tools, and neutron/X-ray scattering capabilities.


