Research

We are an experimental condensed matter physics lab focused on discovering and exploring new quantum phases of matter. Our research centers on strongly correlated and topological quantum phases in two-dimensional materials, particularly fractional Chern insulators and chiral topological superconductivity. We use cutting-edge imaging techniques and advanced device and material design to investigate superconductivity, magnetism, and their interplay, aiming to uncover novel quantum ground states.

  • Graphene van der Waals two-dimensional sample.

    2D materials

    Two-dimensional materials—such as graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides—offer a remarkably rich and versatile platform for exploring novel quantum phases. Simply stacking different 2D layers can give rise to entirely new phenomena.

    Moiré materials, formed by stacking two 2D crystals with a relative twist angle or lattice mismatch, introduce an unprecedented degree of tunability. The long-wavelength moiré superlattice enables in-situ control of the electron density over a broad range—exceeding one electron per moiré unit cell—effectively allowing tuning of the material's electronic properties, akin to changing its chemical composition.

    Unlike conventional materials, which are typically restricted to integer electron fillings per unit cell, moiré systems allow access to fractional electron densities—such as 1/3, 2/5, and beyond—providing a unique pathway to realize exotic correlated phases, including fractional Chern insulators.

  • Scanning electron microscope image of a SQUID-on-tip.

    Scanning nano SQUID-on-tip

    The nano superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) is fabricated on the apex of a sharp tip, forming a unique scanning probe capable of imaging magnetic fields and temperature distributions at the nanoscale. Together with quantum magneto-transport measurements, it serves as a central tool in the Uri Lab’s research.

    Sensitive to both spin physics and orbital magnetization—deeply connected to Berry curvature and Chern physics—the SQUID-on-tip is uniquely positioned to reveal the fundamental mechanisms underlying quantum topological matter.

    Resolution: 50 nm

    Magnetic sensitivity: < 0.5 nT/√Hz

    Spin sensitivity: < 0.3 μB/√Hz

    Thermal sensitivity: < 1 μK/√Hz

    Scan height: 10 nm

    Temperature range: 10 mK to 7 K

    Magnetic field range: 0 to 5 T

    Simultaneous electrical transport measurements

    Capable of imaging through encapsulation layers and metal top gates

Landau levels magnetic field signature imaged using a scanning SQUID-on-tip.

Microscopic visualization of Landau levels as they bend in space due to twist angle disorder in magic-angle graphene (Nature 2020).

Microscopic visualization of equilibrium currents in quantum Hall edge states. Scale bar: 200 nm (Nature Physics 2020).

Longitudinal resistance map of superconductivity in a moiré quasicrystal (Nature 2023).