Electron correlations and non-trivial band topology in 2D materials

Phenomena originating from strong electron correlations and non-trivial band topology have become one of the main research areas in modern condensed matter physics and are expected to revolutionise future technology. Especially, quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE) has been observed in topological insulators, leading to dissipation-less spin-polarised current. So far, QAHE has been experimentally observed in a few systems. In this project, we aim at studying alternative systems which promise to hold QAHE states at much higher temperature than the current conventional QAHE materials. This project involves the synthesis and systematic and in-depth characterisation of these materials. The latter will specifically involve high-resolution transmission electron microscopy.