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Exotic quantum states by locally-broken inversion symmetry in extreme conditions.

Project description

Unlocking new frontiers in our understanding of emergent states

In the world of tiny particles, like electrons in solids, forces between the particles can lead to strange behaviours called quantum states that single particles could not form. These states have sparked excitement for their potential in technology, like superconductors for powerful quantum computers. However, a lot remains to be studied about these states and surprising experimental discoveries shape this field of research. In this context, the ERC-funded Ixtreme project will explore how special forms of crystal asymmetry in materials might create new quantum states. Led by a team of experts, the project employs extreme conditions such as very low temperature, very high magnetic fields and high pressure to unravel the intricate interplay between asymmetry, strong forces between electrons, and superconductivity.

Objective

Strong correlations between electrons in solids lead to a variety of exotic quantum states like Mott insulator, unconventional high-Tc or odd-parity superconductivity. The groundbreaking discoveries of these states have not only generated huge advances in our understanding of condensed matter but also uncover a great potential for applications such as room-temperature superconductivity or quantum computing.

Symmetry is an important concept in classifying quantum states. So far, the majority of research has focused on global symmetry. I have recently discovered striking experimental evidence that local inversion symmetry breaking opens up a new route for the appearance of novel quantum states of matter. Namely, it can induce novel types of odd-parity superconductivity with possibly topological character, a much-needed state for topological quantum computing. However, the effect of local inversion symmetry breaking on quantum states still lacks our control and understanding.

In the Ixtreme project, I propose to generalise and exploit this concept by investigating materials with locally broken inversion symmetry as a platform of exotic quantum states. By measuring electric and thermal transport as well as magnetic properties in extreme conditions of very low temperature, high magnetic field and high hydrostatic and uniaxial pressure, the Ixtreme team will study and control the delicate interplay of local inversion-symmetry breaking with correlated electrons, magnetic and orbital degrees of freedom, topology, and superconductivity. Thereby, this project will establish new understanding of the physical properties of this promising novel class of unconventional metals and lead to new design methodologies for emergent states such as odd-parity superconductivity in locally non-centrosymmetric correlated electron systems.

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Keywords

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) ERC-2023-COG

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Host institution

TECHNISCHE UNIVERSITAET DRESDEN
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 2 731 250,00
Address
HELMHOLTZSTRASSE 10
01069 Dresden
Germany

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Region
Sachsen Dresden Dresden, Kreisfreie Stadt
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 2 731 250,00

Beneficiaries (1)

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