Our work is at the intersection of quantum physics, machine learning and chemistry on problems of relevance to quantum materials and quantum technologies, including quantum computing, quantum sensing and quantum algorithms. We are particularly excited about applications of machine learning for solving complex quantum problems and applications of quantum hardware for machine learning.
Our group is focused on the design and discovery of new quantum materials using a broad range of crystal growth techniques, including metallic flux, vapour transport, high-pressure synthesis, and floating zone growth. We are particularly interested in establishing structure-function relationships in quantum materials via characterization of their structural, magnetic, and electronic behaviors in order to facilitate the targeted design of materials with novel or useful properties. This research is performed in our state-of-the-art crystal growth laboratories at Blusson QMI, as well as international neutron scattering, x-ray synchrotron, and muon spin relaxation user facilities.
Our new Quantum Materials Electron Microscopy Centre will have a state of the art electron microscope for atomic imaging and characterization of materials and for carrying out electron energy loss measurements as a function of momentum with ultra-high energy resolution. Research with this latter capability may include measurements of the momentum dependence of the dielectric function of quantum materials, studies of collective excitations in inhomogeneous strongly correlated matter, and studies of the spectrum of confined optical modes in polaritonic media. We are also developing a nanospectroscopy laboratory for conducting optical spectroscopy measurements. This will aid in discovery of new polaritonic materials based on 2D electrides and layered transition metal oxides, and developing means for controlling them by integrating them with quantum materials.
Our group is focused on finding new materials that are at or near a quantum phase transition, where new phases of matter—including novel order—emerges at zero temperature. We carry out measurements of fundamental quantities, such as the transport of charge and heat, and especially their magnetic properties using a combination of lab-based techniques and also neutron scattering facilities. These materials form the basis of a number of different collaborations that leverage the experimental strengths within Blusson QMI.
