Research and Teaching Interests
Quantum magnetism in nanoscale and molecular systems is the overarching theme of our research programs. They exist at the exciting convergence of materials physics and chemistry. We use cutting edge experimental techniques to make, identify and understand the quantum interactions and their relationships in nanoscaled systems (e.g. nanoparticle and thin films) and magnetic materials with similar constrained geometries (e.g. molecular magnets). Quantum materials synthesis in our lab is followed by diving into the physics using characterization with our experiments that operate in environments from sub-Kelvin to 1500 K with magnetic fields up 9 T (200,000x the Earth’s), using probes from imaging electrons to gamma-rays to synchrotron x-rays. Then, we dig deeper into the physics of our quantum materials with theoretical modelling and simulations. Join a group of highly enthusiastic and energetic researchers that include undergraduate and graduate scholarship winners (e.g. NSERC’s USRA, CGS and PGS M, CGS and PGS D, and Vanier scholarships and fellowships); graduates have gone to the top labs in the world in academia and industry. The Nanomagnetism Research Group’s programs and projects involve active collaborations with world-class experts in chemistry and engineering, at the UofM and internationally (US, Europe and Asia). We also pursue actively research enabling applications. Examples are in biofilm eradication, drug delivery and hyperthermia (UofM Biosystems Engineering and Faculty of Medicine), systems for neuromorphic computing, and new catalytic materials and power applications (Toyota R&D North America) for Green-tech that sees commercial application.
Research Expertise:
magnetism and electronic structure of nanomaterials and interfaces
Research Highlight:
Role of Ce 4f hybridization in the origin of magnetism in nanoceria – the prototypical example of extensive spontaneous ferromagnetism in oxide materials with no magnetic cations.