Admission requirements
Introduction to solid state physics: band structure, crystal symmetries. Introductory quantum mechanics course.
Description
This course explores the macroscopic quantum states of superconducting systems and their unusual characteristics. The focus is on current research themes in quantum materials and quantum technologies, where superconductivity plays a central role. Students will develop an intuition for quantum coherence from a macroscopic perspective by exploring the pairing symmetries of exotic superconductors and transport phenomena in Josephson devices. This course connects fundamental concepts in quantum mechanics and superconductivity to today’s research on quantum materials and emerging technologies.
Course objectives
Upon completion of this course you will be able to:
critically analyze and evaluate the physical principles of superconductivity as a macroscopic quantum state.
interpret how superconducting devices enable us to create rare quantum symmetries, relevant to advanced quantum technologies.
Sub-objectives:
Assess the phenomenological description of bosonic condensates (e.g., superconductors and superfluids), and explain their macroscopic quantum behavior.
Describe different classes of pairing symmetries, and discuss their consequences for the physical characteristics of a real material system.
Demonstrate how superconducting devices, such as Josephson junctions, can be utilized to modify a superconducting wavefunction, and reflect on their applications in quantum sensing and computing.
Examine recent research on superconducting materials and devices, reflect critically on their implications, and communicate findings effectively in an oral presentation.
Apply insights from this course to analyze challenges and opportunities in quantum technologies based on superconducting systems.
Schedule
The timetables are available through My Timetable (see the button in the upper right corner).
Teaching method
Lectures, student seminars and homework exercises.
For more information see Brightspace
Assesment method
The final grade will be determined as follows:
Homework exercises and a student presentation (usually done in pairs) on a recent research paper, related to the material covered during the course (25%)
Final (written) 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 made available via Brightspace throughout the course.
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.