Abstract

Quantum spin Hall effect (QSHE) a fascinating topological phenomenon that could happen when electrons are confined in two-dimension (2D). It plays an important role in understanding fundamental topological physics principle in materials, as well as in engineering low-power electronic and quantum computation device applications.

In this project, we will attempt to realize QSHE in heterostructures formed by atomically thin 2D materials. We will employ electron transport measurements at cryogenic temperatures and search for the quantized conductance as evidence of QSHE. We will get theory support from Dr. Joaquín Fernández-Rossier at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Portugal, to design experiments and understand the data obtained. In addition, the experimental group of Sascha Sadewasser will contribute with the growth of as a substrate materials using molecular beam epitax. We will arrange exchanges of staff and students to facilitate realizing the goal of this project.

Beginning with this seed project, we expect to establish a long-term collaboration to generate impacts in higher-education, fundamental physic research, and industrial application in MIT and in Portugal.

MIT PI
Long Ju, Assistant Professor, Department of Physics

PT PIs
Joaquín Fernández-Rossier, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, group leader of Theory of Quantum Nanostructures and tenured staff researcher, Portugal
Sascha Sadewasser, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory, Leader of the Laboratory for Nanostructured Solar Cells

Abstract

The advent of 2D crystalline materials has enabled the fabrication of novel devices with unique capabilities different from conventional 3D materials. Of particular interest are devices where the ability to control the stacking order and rotational alignment between 2D materials enables the engineering of novel tunable phases of matter. This proposal aims to investigate a new generation of nanoelectronic sensors based on novel 2D synthetic ferroelectric devices and twisted bilayer graphene devices. These sensors are expected to provide advantages such as ultra-fast switching speed, long endurance, biocompatibility, and compatibility with existing complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor technology. This work will involve a close collaboration between MIT and Portuguese researchers at the International Iberian Nanotechnology Institute (INL) paving the way to advanced technology applications of interest to the health sciences and pharmaceutical industry in Portugal.

MIT PI
Pablo Jarillo-Herrero, Professor, Department of Physics

PT PI
Dr. Pedro Alpuim, International Iberian Nanotechnology Institute, Research Group Leader.
Dr. Joaquin Fernandez-Rossier, International Iberian Nanotechnology Institute, Research Group Leader

Abstract

Sepsis is a leading cause of death from infection, driven by a dysregulated immune response. There is a need for technology to monitor sepsis progression and guide treatment. Neutrophils are abundant and easily accessible immune cells, and their functional state holds promise as a real-time biomarker for sepsis and other diseases of the immune system. Here we propose to integrate a microfluidic electronic cellular analysis chip developed at MIT called isodielectric separation with a nanoelectronic graphene field-effect transistor chip sensor developed at INL that is capable of detecting reactive oxygen species, a key neutrophil effector function. This combined platform will provide high-resolution, multidimensional profiling of neutrophil function from a drop of blood. We will develop an integrated chip-based platform and validate the system using chemically activated human neutrophils. This work will enable more precise immune monitoring in sepsis and other immune-related conditions, advancing clinical applications and providing substantial commercial potential.

MIT PI
Joel Voldman, Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

PT PI
Pedro Alpuim, Research Group Leader, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory
Jérôme Borme, Research Scientist PI, International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory