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Quantum materials

Foto: Lukas Kroll

Quantum materials are characterized by collective quantum effects that lead to remarkable macroscopic properties, ranging from strongly correlated electron states, to excitonic condensation, and to topological phases.

We are investigating the properties of prototypical quantum materials, in particular, two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides, organic semiconductors, and peroveskites.  In a collaborative network of research groups, atomically thin materials are designed, experimentally fabricated, structurally and spectroscopically investigated and theoretically modeled with the goal of developing excitonic optoelectronic and quantum-technological devices of the future.

A particular focus is on the dynamics of optically excited excitons—bound electron-hole-pairs—and their interaction with phonons, with other excitons, and with the environment. We are investigating interlayer-, Moiré-, and charge-transfer excitons as well as many-body effects and nonlinear and ultrafast processes on femtosecond time scales.

Numerical simulations and electron microscopy contribute substantially to the characterization and the understanding of these systems. Our research combines solid-state and quantum optics with materials science and contributes to the design of future excitonic, optoelectronic, and quantum technological devices. 

Contributing researchers and their research areas

  • Florian Gebhard, Many-particle theory
    Model calculations for correlated electron systems
  • Marina Gerhard, Semiconductor spectroscopy
    Temporally and spatially resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy
  • Nadine Leisgang, Quantum optoelectronics
    Fabrication, characterization and manipulation of quantum materials
  • Ermin Malic, Ultrafast quantum dynamics 
    Microscopic modeling of dynamics and transport of optical excitations (excitons) in layered structures
  • Marcel Reutzel, Ultrafast and coherent phenomena 
    Exciton dynamics in Moiré structures and light-induced phase transitions
  • Kerstin Volz, Functional materials 
    Epitaxial fabrication and structural characterization of semiconductor layered structures using electron-beam microscopy
  • Gregor Witte, Molecular solid state physics 
    Preparation and characterization of organic semiconductors on surfaces
  • Stefan Wippermann, Ab-initio energy materials 
    Ab-initio density functional theory for interfaces and nanostructures

Collaborative research projects

Associated study programs