Unravelling nanoscale ordering by investigating the emerging pathways between electronic structure and magnetism

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My research program is concentrated on the study of the mechanisms responsible for the scientifically fascinating and often useful magnetism unique to nanoscale systems. The overarching goal is to develop new approaches and understanding at the quantum-level of nanomagnetism's origins, especially at interfaces. New knowledge generated will address grand challenges associated with controlling materials processes at the level of electrons, and designing and perfecting new forms of matter with atom-level tailored properties. A primary program objective is to identify the physics of magnetic ordering processes at the nanoscale between oxide interfaces. Special attention will be placed on answering questions directed by the field's current focus; spin-orbit coupling effects on surface and interface atomic exchange, and Dzyaloshinski-Moriya interactions at interfaces, by using novel prototype systems of transition metal and metal oxide shells on nanoparticle cores of the iron-oxide polymorphs -Fe2O3, -Fe2O3 and -Fe2O3. The proposed program involves the synthesis of nanomaterials, and their theoretical and experimental investigations. As a pioneer of fabricating precisely controlled interfaces in nanoparticle systems, and their characterization (e.g. my chapter in Magnetic Characterization Techniques for Nanomaterials by Springer), my HQP are able to investigate high quality interfaces using techniques that reveal the physics of the volume control and on/off switch of technologically relevant phenomena. Materials made by HQP are the gateway to the wide spectrum of skills I teach, ranging from conventional laboratory techniques to accelerator/beam line physics. In addition to the conventional tools, we use the newest x-ray synchrotron techniques and ligand field multiplet calculations with atomic probes like Mössbauer spectroscopy. The work requires a deep appreciation of data analysis, theory, and computer modelling. HQP learn to disentangle the connections between electronic structure and magnetism, thereby gaining novel insights of magnetism and elucidating new physics. My program will see us continue to do high impact work as exemplified in our Advanced Materials, ACS Applied Materials and Interfaces, Physical Review B, and Applied Physics Letters articles. Spin-offs include collaborations with Toyota that involve an internship program. The proposed program will ensure that HQP continue to secure top-tier positions like those in the Quantum Condensed Matter Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This program builds on the tools, techniques and new materials systems I have developed and will continue to augment to enable my long term vision: Exploring open questions in condensed matter and materials physics such as elucidating the physics underlying emergent behaviour at magnetic interfaces, and enabling new technologies like nanocomposite magnets.