Emergent quantum phenomena near magnetic and dielectric phase transitions

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Materials tuned to the neighbourhood of a quantum phase transition often show the emergence of novel quantum phenomena. This project will investigate magnetic and dielectric materials in which the phase transition temperature is tuned to absolute zero using pressure or strain. Theoretical and experimental techniques will be deployed to investigate the dynamics and quantum noise spectrum anticipated to arise in such materials and to search for superconductivity mediated by magnetic fluctuations or hybrid polar modes. Other states to be explored include topological nano-polarization textures expected to emerge in quantum paraelectrics and non-Fermi liquid metals in heavy fermion materials. Pure single crystals will be synthesised using chemical vapour transport, electromagnetic induction heating and pulsed-laser deposition. Resistivity, susceptibility and heat capacity measurements will be carried out at temperatures below 50mK under the extreme conditions of high pressures and high magnetic fields.