Project Details
A material's combination of correlation and topology is predicted to realize novel quantum states of matter. Despite various attempts to realize correlated topological materials with intertwined charge, spin, and orbital degrees of freedom, only a handful of materials have been experimentally identified. Furthermore, while intriguing topological quantum phenomena are realized, such as, the quantum anomalous Hall effect, for instance, their reproduction remains limited and challenging, and the origin of such remarkable properties is still under debate. Thus, the overarching goal of this project is to understand and discover correlated and topological states of matter by exploiting the interplay between symmetry, correlation, and topology in oxide- and chalcogenide-based quantum heterostructures. To achieve this goal, we focus on three specific aims: (1) Create and control topological phases in correlated perovskite oxide thin films and 2D membranes by interrogating the role of oxygen octahedral symmetry and strain; (2) Understand complex magnetism in kagome metals and altermagnets as well as their heterostructures; and (3) Unveil how to control topological wavefunctions in magnetic topological insulators and their heterostructures by manipulating magnetic orders and disorder. Underpinning this work combines expertise and experimental capabilities based on precision synthesis by pulsed-laser deposition and molecular-beam epitaxy with advanced characterization tools. The latter include spin- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, inelastic x-ray scattering, neutron reflectometry, optical spectroscopy, and milli-Kelvin quantum transport. The fundamental knowledge obtained in this proposed work will provide useful information to advance next-generation information and energy technologies, thereby supporting the DOE missions to achieve the vision of a secure and sustainable energy future.
