Munich Initiative for Cross-Correlative Spin Microscopy (MICroCoSM)

• Subject Area: Experimental Condensed Matter Physics ; Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 491232159

In quantum materials, spin and charge correlations are so strong that they define the macroscopic features of the system. As such, quantum phases with completely novel character that go far beyond conventional considerations derived from the crystal lattice or symmetry can suddenly emerge, such as superconductivity or non-trivial topology. The conventional approach to study these emergent phases relies on global observables, which can be probed by electrical or optical spectroscopy. From this macroscopic viewpoint, the form and origin of many-body interactions that are the reason why new quantum phases emerge, can only be inferred. The reconstruction of the individual electron-electron or spin-spin interactions that ultimately drive these emergent phases is a formidable challenge at the forefront of quantum science, the progress of which is hindered as spectroscopic tools that combine sensitivities for both degrees of freedom at the single quantum level are missing. This need has been identified by various international workshops and reviews on the forefront of quantum matter.The overarching goal of the Munich Initiative for Cross-Correlative Spin Microscopy (MICroCoSM) is to enable the study of nanoscale quantum materials and hybrid quantum systems using the high-resolution, and crucially, the multi-modal spectroscopy offered by tip-based nitrogen vacancy (NV) quantum sensing. The unique proposed system moves the boundary of the experimental state-of-the-art by enabling tip-based, time resolved single spin spectroscopy at low temperatures in high magnetic fields. These capabilities are unique but necessary in order to manipulate and investigate the spin-and charge configurations of quantum matter. Moreover, the proposed instrument will have a sophisticated optical design to enable advanced optical spectroscopy experiments to correlate in real-time the nanoscale NV probe measurements with global observables. MICroCoSM will enable completely new insight into the challenging but critical phase space from single particle interactions to a global quantum phase, and therefore overcomes the main experimental roadblocks to understand emergence in quantum matter.

• DFG Programme: Major Instrumentation Initiatives
• Major Instrumentation: Cryogenic AFM-tip-based NV Magnetometer
• Instrumentation Group: 5040 Spezielle Mikroskope (außer 500-503)
• Applicant Institution: Technische Universität München (TUM)
• Leader: Professor Dr. Jonathan J. Finley