Xiaomeng Liu

Visualizing emergent electron orders in two-dimensional quantum materials.

Collective behaviors of electrons in materials can lead to unusual quantum phenomena such as electricity flowing without loss and the emergence of exotic particles. These phenomena not only fascinate scientists but also offer new opportunities for quantum technology. However, investigating quantum properties can be challenging. By using a sharp needle to probe electrons' behaviors, the scanning tunneling microscope (STM) enables scientists to detect microscopic quasi-particles and understand enigmatic quantum states of matter. In this talk, I will focus on the application of STM to a rising material platform—two-dimensional (2D) materials and their heterostructures. In particular, using atomic-scale imaging of electron wavefunctions, we were able to solve a long-standing puzzle surrounding correlated electron orders in graphene when exposed to magnetic fields. Our findings also provided new insights into the quantum Hall physics and a novel approach to studying valley ordering in other 2D systems. I will conclude my talk by highlighting the promising potential of combining STM with 2D heterostructures to access long-sought topics in condensed matter physics.

Hosted by Kin Fai Mak

Pizza served starting at 12:10 p.m.

Please bring your own beverage.