Applied Physics/Physics Colloquium: Young Lee- "Quantum Spin Liquids: Are we there yet?"

Abstract: Quantum spin liquids represent new states of matter that are characterized by long-range quantum entanglement. Unlike common magnets, the spins in a quantum spin liquid (QSL) do not order or break conventional symmetries, but rather they remain fluctuating even as the temperature approaches absolute zero. 50 years after the theoretical proposal for such states, there is still great debate regarding their existence. Leading candidate materials for QSL ground states are based on highly frustrated lattices. Our neutron scattering studies on spin-1/2 kagome materials reveal universal behavior which are hallmarks of QSL physics. Combined with new insight from state-of-the art computer simulations, we argue that our results represent the strongest existence proof yet for these fascinating ground states.

Young Lee is a Professor of Applied Physics and Photon Science at Stanford University. He received his B.A. from Princeton University and his Ph.D. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Professor Lee’s research focuses on the study of novel electronic and magnetic materials, particularly in single-crystal form. His work aims to understand the complex behavior of strongly interacting quantum particles in materials known as correlated electron systems and quantum spin systems. By exploring how magnetic, charge, orbital, and lattice properties interact, his research seeks to uncover new materials and previously unknown physical phenomena.