Center for Functional Nanomaterials Seminar

Understanding and controlling nanoscale phenomena in quantum materials and devices is essential for advancing microelectronics and quantum technologies in sensing, computing, and communication. In this seminar, I will present my research on imaging and tuning electronic properties and quantum dynamics in advanced materials through the development and application of innovative techniques, such as scanning microwave impedance microscopy (MIM)1 and surface-sensitive spintronic terahertz (THz) spectroscopy2. Highlights include: I) nanoscale mapping of correlated electronic states in 2D WS2/WSe2 moiré superlattices3, revealing spatial inhomogeneity of electron interactions; II) imaging light-excited carrier dynamics in 2D semiconductors and their heterojunctions for applications in nanoscale electronics and optoelectronics4,5; and III) development of spintronic THz spectroscopy to probe the dynamics of surface phonons that mediate Cooper pairing at quantum paraelectric interfaces2, advancing our understanding of interfacial superconductivity. These studies offer valuable insights for designing ultra-thin, energy-efficient quantum devices by leveraging the nanoscale functionalities of advanced material systems. I will conclude by briefly outlining future plans to develop milliKelvin MIM capabilities to explore new functionalities in quantum materials and devices at the CFN—integrating my expertise with the world-class resources at Brookhaven National Laboratory. References: 1. Z. Chu, L. Zheng, K. Lai, Annu. Rev. Mater. Sci., 50:105-130 (2020). 2. Z. Chu, J. Yang, et al., Sci. Adv. 10 (48), eads8601 (2024). 3. Z. Chu, E. C. Regan, et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 125, 186803 (2020) 4. Y. Tsai, Z. Chu, et al., Adv. Mater. 29, 1703680 (2017). 5. Z. Chu, C. Wang, et al., PNAS 117, 13908 (2020)