Topological & Weyl Quantum Materials: Chiral Transport and CPGE

Symmetry-breaking light–matter interactions in low-dimensional quantum materials

Overview

We investigate topology-driven chiral charge transport in topological and Weyl quantum materials under circularly polarized optical excitation. Broken inversion and time-reversal symmetries give rise to Berry curvature–induced photocurrents, including the circular photogalvanic effect (CPGE). By combining polarization-resolved optical spectroscopy with electrical transport measurements, we directly probe helicity-dependent carrier dynamics and symmetry-protected transport phenomena. Our studies clarify how topological band structures govern optoelectronic responses without external bias. This research bridges fundamental topological physics with functional chiral optoelectronic devices.

Scientific Motivation

Topological quantum materials host robust electronic states protected by band topology rather than conventional symmetries. When coupled to circularly polarized light, these materials exhibit unique chiral transport phenomena that cannot arise in trivial systems. Understanding how topology and optical helicity interact is essential for exploiting topological materials in next-generation optoelectronic and quantum devices.

Key Research Topics

Methods & Experimental Platforms