RESEARCH

Quantum Materials

Quantum materials are significant to the second quantum evolution that is related to modern technologies, e.g., quantum computers, quantum networks and memory devices. The research in Gui lab is based on solid-state chemistry. We mainly work on design and synthesis of NEW quantum materials, such as superconductors, quantum spin liquids, magnetic topological materials etc., starting from chemical perspectives (crystal structure, chemical bonding etc.) and understanding the fundamental relation between the chemical components and physical properties. Moreover, connecting these new quantum materials with other applications (quantum computers, memory chips etc.) is another potential direction of our research. In long term, we hope to build feasible chemical design rules for these important materials.

Topic#1. New Material Systems for Frustrated Magnetism and Quantum Spin Liquid

Magnetic materials with magnetic atoms in one-dimensional (1-D) or two-dimensional (2-D) sublattices are of great interest to date. With 1-D or special 2-D lattices, i.e., linear chain, honeycomb, triangular and Kagome lattices, materials can exhibit frustrated magnetism which can potentially host quantum spin liquid state, a type of quantum states that can never be magnetically ordered. It has potential to be applied to quantum computers and is believed to relate to high-Tc superconductivity. These special structural motifs bring infinite opportunities for us to design/synthesize novel frustrated magnets/quantum spin liquids.

Topic#2. New Superconductors

Superconductors produce zero electrical resistance and magnetic flux expulsion. Various alloys, intermetallics and oxides were found to be superconducting since the first discovery of superconductivity in Hg over a century ago. On the other hand, superconducting qubits have become one of the leading platforms for scalable quantum computers due to its high designability and scalability, and high feasibility to couple and control. The Gui lab is trying to design and synthesize novel superconducting materials in different forms that allow us to solve long-standing scientific problems in the field.

Additional topic of interest: New Magnetic Topological Materials

Topological materials are those where the properties on the surface are different than in the bulk. Because of the special properties, they can be extensively applied, such spintronic devices. Looking for novel AFM topological semimetals for future spintronic devices are of great interests and this is a field where solid-state chemists can contribute to.

Prospective graduate students or undergraduate researchers who are interested in joining our group may email your CV/transcript/list of courses/list of skills to Xin.

So far, we greatly appreciate the funds from