Nanostructured Quantum Matter Group

Topological physics at the nanoscale

We experimentally explore emergent phenomena regulated by the higher organization principle of topological order, using the tools of condensed matter physics. Our main research interest is to understand topological quantum matter with and without interactions from the macro to the nanoscale, where quantum effects give rise to unusual electronic and thermal transport properties.

Of particular interest are topological materials in which the electronic excitations are effectively described by relativistic quantum field theory. Within the topological band structure, electrons can form states that collectively behave as relativistic Dirac, Weyl or Majorana fermions, enabling to experimentally probe exotic quantum effects that have previously only been discussed in the context of high energy physics.

We seek to gain experimental insights to quantum anomalies, such as the chiral and gravitational anomaly, emergent gravity, novel particle excitations, spontaneous symmetry breaking and bounding transport. Topological states are often associated with a relevant physical length scale (e.g. mean free path, coherence or Fermi wave length). We investigate how the electronic system changes as its physical dimension is tuned below that length scale.

While relativistic quantum field theory is traditionally investigated in particle in high energy physics, which are rather observational sciences, we employ state-of-the-art growth, device fabrication and measurement techniques of solid state research and industry to design effective environments for topological quasi-particles.

Our research is at the interface between physics, materials science and device engineering, and thus our efforts are naturally collaborative. We form strong international collaborations with theoretical physicists, material synthesis experts and device engineers around the world.

This group is independent from the other departments within the Max Planck Institute but works in strong collaboration with them and has access to the extraordinary infrastructure of the institute.

Whether you have suggestions for new materials, want to discuss proposals for collaborations or just physics - we look forward to hearing from you. For additional information, please also visit us at naquamat.de.

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