SEMINAR 2024

Abstract

The breaking of time-reversal symmetry in topological insulators leads to novel quantum states of matter. One prominent example at the two-dimensional limit is the Chern insulator, which hosts dissipationless chiral edge states at sample boundaries. These chiral edge modes are perfect one-dimensional conductors whose chirality is defined by the material magnetization and in which backscattering is topologically forbidden. Recently, van der Waals topological magnet MnBi₂Te₄ emerged as a new solid-state platform for studies of the interplay between magnetism and topology. In this talk, I will present an overview of our progress toward controlling topological phase transitions and chiral edge modes in MnBi₂Te₄ as well as discovering new quantum states in this material family. First, I will establish how topological properties are intimately intertwined with magnetic states. I will then demonstrate electrical control of the number of chiral edge states and the discovery of chiral edge modes along crystalline steps between regions of different thicknesses and how these modes can be harnessed for the engineering of simple topological circuits. Finally, I will discuss the engineering of the superconducting state in topological insulators and demonstrate Pauli paramagnetic limit violation in atomically thin flakes of a topological superconductor candidate.