Electronic and optical materials

Strongly correlated electron systems

Our objective in the next 2 years is to research Fe-based compounds that display a range phenomena including partial charge-ordering, colossal magneto-resistance, magnetic order, spin-frustration, and multi-ferroic behavior. We will focus on SrFeOx, BiFeO₃, and 2D layered compounds containing Fe. We have access to a wide range of equipment including New Zealand's only Quantum Design Physical Properties Measurements System (shown below) and New Zealand's only Quantum Design SQUID magnetometer. This objective is lead by Grant Williams and includes other researchers at IRL and Victoria University.

New Zealand's only Quantum Design Physical Properties Measurements System.

High-temperature superconductors and related materials

The aim of this objective is to understand the fundamental physics of high temperature superconductors – how they superconduct and the origin of the states of electronic matter that compete with superconductivity. We use specific heat, Raman spectroscopy, muon spin relaxation, NMR^[?] and synchrotron x-ray measurements in HTS^[?] cuprates to probe their low-energy excitations as a function of doping, temperature, external pressure, chemical pressure, and isotope exchange. We will also continue the search for novel hybrid oxide superconductors. This objective is lead by Jeff Tallon and includes students and other researchers at IRL.

Optoelectronic properties of rare earth nitrides

The aim of this objective is to research rare earth nitride thin films and study their electronic, optical and magnetic properties. This objective is lead by Ben Ruck (Victoria University) and includes other researchers at Victoria University, IRL, and Canterbury University.