Eric Montoya

Eric Montoya is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Utah, where he has led the MLAB (Magnetic Materials and Spin Dynamics Laboratory) since January 2022. His research focuses on experimental condensed matter physics, specializing in magnetic materials, spin dynamics, and nanofabrication for spintronic applications.

Education:

• PhD in Physics, Simon Fraser University (2016)
• BS in Physics and Astronomy, Western Washington University
• Postdoctoral Scholar, Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Irvine

Research Focus: Montoya's group investigates spin-orbit interactions, magnetization dynamics, and spin transport phenomena. They develop novel spintronic devices like spin Hall oscillators and explore quantum technologies through materials engineering. Recent breakthroughs include discovering self-generated spin-orbit torques and anomalous Hall nano-oscillators.

Publication Trends: His 26+ articles primarily explore spin-orbit torques, nano-oscillators, and spin transport mechanisms. Works frequently bridge fundamental physics (e.g., quantum well states, chaos-driven magnetization) with applied device innovation (memory, oscillators). Common themes include interfacial spin effects, universal Hall phenomena, and radiation-resistant nanodevices.

Awards:

• NSF CAREER Award (2025)

Grants & Advising: Secured $900k NSF-MRI grant (2023) for materials characterization systems. Advises PhD/Master's students including Noah (DOE CSGF fellow), Prakash (poster award winner), and Jonathan (undergraduate research awardee). Research supported by instrumentation for electrical/magnetic characterization.

Laboratory: The MLAB group specializes in sample growth, nanofabrication, and spin dynamics characterization, with recent work on universal Hall effects and spin-orbitronic devices.