Biography
Frank Zhao earned his B. Sc. (Honors) degree at University of Toronto, where he studied Mathematics and Physics. For his doctoral research, he studied emergent quantum phenomena at atomically clean interfaces between air sensitive 2D materials in mesoscopic devices, with Philip Kim at Columbia and Harvard University. He continued his research at MIT with Joe Checkelsky where he synthesized new unconventional superconductors, which he measured using structural, transport and magnetic probes at low temperature and high magnetic field. He will combine material synthesis and cryogenic van der Waals stacking techniques to discover emergent phenomena at the interface between quantum materials.
Research
The Quantum Interfaces Laboratory studies emergent quantum phenomena at the interface between crystalline lattices. We combine thermodynamic single-crystal synthesis with deterministic van der Waals stacking techniques to realize atomically clean interfaces between arbitrary (even air- or heat-sensitive) van der Waals materials. Using novel lithographic techniques, we pattern these heterostructures into micro- and nanometer scale devices without any exposure to air, heat, or chemicals. Using structural probes alongside transport, magnetic and thermodynamic measurements, we aim to elucidate the relationship between a material or heterostructure’s lattice structure and its electronic properties. Finally, we aim to use this understanding to design and benchmark devices for future technology.
Research Area:
Centers & Institutes: Quantum Materials Center