Research

Tuning quantum systems

Long-range moire patterns arise from small misalignments between two similar two-dimensional (2D) lattices. For electrons in 2D materials, the slow variation in local atomic structure leads to long wavelength potentials that define moire electrons and other quasiparticles. Acting like a brand new crystal, these interfaces introduce superconductivity, magnetism, and correlated insulating phases to otherwise standard metals and semiconductors.

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) uses weak magnetic pulses to probe nuclear spin dynamics without destroying electronic ground states. Measurement of the nuclear spin's decoherence time and of local magnetic fields, both due to interactions with electrons and phonons, are the traditional ways NMR probes quantum materials. However, long-range electron-electron correlations can lead to significant electron-mediated coupling between nuclei, leading to a unique regime of NMR measurements. By carefully choosing experimental pulse strengths and orientations, the strength, range, and anisotropy of electronic correlations can be revealed.