Probing proximity in topological insulator / magnetic insulator heterostructures

Matt Gebert

Matt Gebert, Monash

Magnetic proximity between topological insulators and magnetic insulators is expected to yield interesting states such as the quantum anomalous Hall insulator or axion insulator. In this work, we demonstrate progress towards the creation and characterisation of such structures through transferred MBE TI growths onto MIs, or direct growths on MIs.

About the presenter

Matthew Gebert is a PhD student in Prof Michael Fuhrer’s group at Monash University, investigating the interface between the 2D surface state of a 3D topological insulator (TI) with a thin, insulating ferromagnetic material. The aims of the project are to understand the effects of time-reversal symmetry breaking on the topological insulator and to investigate the effects of spin-polarised transport current in the topological insulator on the ferromagnet. Both aspects are of interest from the perspectives of both fundamental physics and prospects for electronics applications.

This work contributes to FLEET Research theme 2, exciton superfluids.