Quantum materials at the atomic scale

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My research program is at the convergence of two rapidly evolving fields of research: quantum science and ultimately thin materials, 2D materials. In this space, there is an emerging opportunity for breakthroughs in the development of next-generation quantum technologies by harnessing the properties of 2D materials that are optimally suited for incorporation in quantum devices. Therefore, the long-term vision of the program is to create quantum functionality in 2D systems by combining fabrication and assembly techniques of 2D layers at the nanoscale as well as advanced scanning probe microscopy with atomic precision. In this proposal, my research group aims to advance towards this goal in three directions of research. A first direction of research is aimed at creating arrays of defects in 2D materials that can be used for quantum sensors. To that end, we will characterize the charge states of atomic defects using scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM/STS) and subsequently devise protocols to deterministically pattern such defects into arrays. Such systems have the potential to represent highly sensitive single-photon or single-electron quantum sensors. A second direction of research aims to fabricate and characterize moiré patterns in twisted 2D layers that can be used as a quantum simulation platform, enabling the study of strongly correlated physics and topology in quantum materials. Changing the twist angle, the type of material for each layer, and applying external stimuli such as electric filed gating gives an unprecedented degree of control over symmetries and interactions among the moiré sites. Using techniques developed in my laboratory for controlled fabrication of twisted 2D materials, we will fabricate such moiré systems. Using STM/STS, we will study their electronic properties at the atomic scale, tune their interactions, and explore them as platforms for simulating controllable quantum Hamiltonians such as the Hubbard model or moiré ferromagnets, otherwise elusive experimentally. A third direction of research is taking on the challenge of demonstrating the building blocks of a topological quantum computing platform based on Majorana modes. We will use a newly discovered platform of layered magnetic topological insulators that are predicted to host Majorana modes when placed in heterostructures in proximity to superconductors. We will fabricate such proximal heterostructures and verify the presence and the degree of control over the predicted Majorana modes, pushing the boundaries towards systems where braiding can be controllably realized. Building on our expertise in this field and taking advantage of the ideally suited infrastructure in my laboratory, pursuing these research directions will open unprecedented opportunities for building quantum devices based on layered 2D materials.