Admission requirements
None.
Description
This course explores a wide range of quantum phenomena in condensed matter systems, with a focus on today’s research on quantum materials and their potential applications. Students will develop an intuition for the physics behind universal concepts, such as magnetism, superconductivity and quantum Hall effect – by reviewing cutting-edge research techniques.
Course objectives
Upon completion of this course you will be able to:
- critically evaluate current research on quantum materials and devices, integrating theoretical concepts with experimental findings to assess their implications for emerging quantum technologies.
Sub-objectives:
Assess various models used to describe condensed matter systems, considering their assumptions;
Apply knowledge of quantum mechanics (e.g., coherence, exchange interaction and quantum Hall effect) to interpret experimental results;
Describe the fundamental interactions and origins of magnetism;
Differentiate between single-electron and many-particle systems, explaining how strong correlations alter the behavior of such systems, leading to macroscopic quantum phenomena;
Design a simplified proposal or presentation, illustrating a quantum material research project, and reflecting on its relevance for future applications.
Schedule
The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).
Teaching method
See Brightspace
Assesment method
The grade comes from the final exam, which may be oral or written, depending on the number of students and an oral presentation where students (usually in pairs) give a short seminar on a current experimental research project at the Leiden Institute of Physics.
The final grade will be determined as follows:
Oral presentation (25%)
Final exam (75%)
Resit, review & feedback
Examinations are held twice during the academic year for each component offered in that academic year. Midterm tests cannot be retaken. The Board of Examiners determines the manner of resit for practical assignments.
For review and feedback, see Brightspace.
Reading list
Material will be available through Brightspace and should be studied before the start of each lecture.
Registration
Enrolment through MyStudyMap (button in upper right corner) is mandatory. General information about course and exam enrolment is available on the website.
Contact
For substantive questions, contact the lecturer(s) (listed in the right information bar).
Remarks
Software
Starting from the 2024/2025 academic year, the Faculty of Science will use the software distribution platform Academic Software. Through this platform, you can access the software needed for specific courses in your studies. For some software, your laptop must meet certain system requirements, which will be specified with the software. It is important to install the software before the start of the course. More information about the laptop requirements can be found on the student website.