About the Project
Rare-earth atoms in crystals exhibit remarkable optical and magnetic properties that could transform atomic-scale sensing and quantum technologies. However, understanding these properties requires isolating the meaningful interactions from their noisy solid-state environments with atomic precision.
Traditional optical techniques provide precise control over single atoms but lack the spatial resolution to probe atomic-scale interactions. Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy (STM), on the other hand, offers atomic-level spatial resolution, allowing the direct observation and manipulation of individual atoms. Recent advances have combined STM with Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), enabling control over single-atom spin states and interactions in unprecedented detail.
This project will leverage ultra-low-temperature STM with EPR to investigate individual erbium (Er) atoms on dielectric layers, such as MgO/Ag(100). These studies will explore how Er atoms interact with their environments and other atoms, essential for developing next-generation quantum devices. By integrating optical techniques with STM-EPR, we aim to unlock a deeper understanding of rare-earth dynamics, moving beyond magnetic measurements to access optical transitions and energy-level structures.
The goal of this thesis is to achieve precise control and sensing of single rare-earth atoms, enabling breakthroughs in quantum technologies and atomic-scale sensors.
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