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Topological insulators (TIs) are a novel class of quantum materials characterized by an insulating bulk and metallic conducting states at the surface. This metallic behavior however, can be changed by applying a magnetic field or, equivalently, by coupling the TI to a ferromagnetic material. In this work, for the first time, MRSEC researchers have succeeded in turning the TI surface states into an insulating state by coupling the TI to a ferromagnetic insulator.

New state of matter may lead to novel computer memory and logic Esoteric property of topological insulators leads to efficient switching  

By precisely controlling the surface composition of thin oxide films, films can be switched from a metal to an insulator. Atomic-scale control of the surface is achieved using molecular beams of atoms (the molecular beam epitaxy growth method). To understand why the thin film changes from a metal to an insulator, the surface is imaged using x-rays scattered from the film (see 3D image of film on left).

  Magnetic anisotropy is the key component in permanent magnets. This research focuses on creating a new type of magnetic anisotropy, leading to synthesis and measurement of two new ternary compounds.