Biswas Lab

Magnetism and Superconductivity in Oxides

Complex oxides such as perovskite manganese oxides (manganites) and high critical temperature (Tc) cuprate superconductors form one of the most fascinating systems in condensed matter physics due to the challenges they pose to our understanding of fundamental phenomena and the potential for applications. Competing ground states are characteristic to these materials. Combined with the built in disorder found in such multi-element compounds, these competing ground states give rise to the inherent complexity and the unique properties of these materials

Our research program includes both sample preparation and measurement and students are trained in different aspects of condensed matter physics research. Undergraduate and graduate students work in teams on instruments such as pulsed laser thin film deposition systems, superconducting magnets, nanofabrication facilities, and scanning probe microscopes. Using these techniques, the students are expected to tackle some of the most exciting and challenging problems in condensed-matter physics.

REU student Kristen Voigt growing a manganite thin film

(a) A 2 × 2 µm2 atomic force microscope image showing the unit cell steps in a 120-nm thick LaPrCaMnO (LPCMO) thin film on NGO. (b) Cross section transmission electron microscope image showing the sharp interface between the substrate and film. (c) The resistivity behavior of an as-grown LPCMO thin film on NGO showing the characteristic hysteresis between cooling and warming runs due to phase coexistence. A resistivity drop of more than 4 orders of magnitude is observed at the transition temperature.

This page will guide you through the research highlights of the Biswas group. If you are interested in joining the group or getting more detailed information please contact Prof. Amlan Biswas (Email: amlan@phys.ufl.edu)