The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) has launched a new Priority Programme (SPP 2558) titled “Unconventional Magnetism: Beyond the S-Wave Magnetism Paradigm”. This initiative aims to foster fundamental research into unconventional compensated magnets, particularly altermagnetism and non-collinear antiferromagnets.

Focus and Objectives

The core objective of this program is to explore the properties of altermagnets and other unconventional magnetic systems. These materials offer potential for high-speed, high-density data storage and spintronic applications, surpassing the limitations of conventional ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. The program seeks to connect various German research teams to fully understand, control, and functionalize unconventional magnetism.

The program will investigate materials with d/g/i-wave symmetry and odd-parity-wave magnetic phases. It aims to leverage the unique properties of these materials for applications in topological quantum matter, spintronics, optics, neuromorphic computing, and more. This initiative seeks to solidify Germany's leading role in the rapidly evolving field of unconventional magnetism.

Research will focus on ground state properties, unconventional magnonics, ultrafast dynamics, and orbital/correlation effects. The program is structured into subtopic research areas including Altermagnetic materials, Noncollinear unconventional magnetic ordered systems, and Ultra-scalable hybrid systems and devices.

Key Research Areas

The Priority Programme will delve into several critical areas within unconventional magnetism. This includes the synthesis, characterization, and theoretical modeling of novel magnetic materials. Understanding the time reversal symmetry breaking and unconventional topology in these systems is also a key focus.

Another significant area is the study of unconventional magnonics, exploring the unique spin-wave excitations in these materials. Furthermore, the program will investigate the ultrafast dynamics of unconventional magnets, seeking to uncover unique signatures and potential applications. The role of orbital and correlation effects in stabilizing different unconventional magnetic phases will also be examined.

Research will also explore instabilities in the different unconventional magnetic phases. This comprehensive approach aims to provide a holistic understanding of unconventional magnetism. The ultimate goal is to translate this knowledge into functional devices and applications.

Proposal Submission Details

Proposals must be submitted in English via the DFG's elan portal. The submission deadline is 5 November 2025. Ensure all applicants are registered in the elan portal by 29 October 2025, especially if this is their first submission to the DFG.

When preparing your proposal, refer to the DFG programme guidelines (DFG form 50.05, section B) and proposal preparation instructions (DFG form 54.01). A copy of the summary of the final proposal should be emailed to the coordinator. Please adhere to the DFG's publication rules (DFG form 1.91).

For organizational purposes, applicants are encouraged to submit a brief outline of their intended proposal to spp-unmag@uni-mainz.de by 31 August 2025. This outline should be no more than one page and include a short description of the project, its assignment to one of the research areas, and applicant information.

Networking and Review Process

An optional networking meeting will be held on 2–3 September 2025 at the Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz. Those wishing to attend should email spp-unmag@uni-mainz.de by 14 July 2025. Participation involves short presentations of planned projects and subsequent discussions.

The review process will take place during an evaluation workshop in Mainz from 14–16 April 2026. The DFG welcomes proposals from researchers of all backgrounds and encourages female researchers to apply. The DFG only funds research institutions that have implemented the guidelines laid down in the Code of Conduct for Safeguarding Good Research Practice.

Ensure your institution has implemented these guidelines to avoid funding delays. Contact the Research Integrity team at the DFG Head Office for any questions. The DFG's Privacy Policy should be reviewed, especially if transmitting personal data of third parties.

Eligibility and Funding

The program is open to researchers based in Germany. The DFG emphasizes equity and diversity, encouraging applications from researchers of all genders, backgrounds, and career stages. Proposals should align with the program's focus on unconventional magnetism and its subtopic research areas.

Funding will be provided for a three-year period, with the possibility of extension. The program aims to support both individual projects and collaborative efforts. Successful proposals will demonstrate a clear research plan, innovative approach, and potential for significant impact in the field.

Applicants must adhere to the DFG's guidelines for good research practice. This includes ensuring the integrity and reproducibility of research findings. The DFG also requires compliance with data protection regulations.