Ankit Khola, Kvantkomponentfysik

Main Supervisor: Prof. Saroj Dash, Quantum Device Physics Laboratory, MC2, Chalmers
Asst. Supervisor: Associate Prof. Thilo Bauch, Quantum Device Physics Laboratory, MC2, Chalmers
 
 
Discussion Leader: Dr. Giovanna  Tancredi, Quantum Technology Laboratory, MC2, Chalmers
Examiner: Prof. Tomas Löfwander, Applied Quantum Physics, MC2, Chalmers
 
Abstract
Weak topological quantum materials represent a class of materials characterized by topologically protected edge states. When such quantum material is integrated into a lateral superconducting Josephson junction, the interplay between superconductivity and topological edge states gives rise to novel quantum transport phenomena. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that the superconducting quantum interferometry approach can be used to determine the topological phase of quantum material zirconium pentatelluride (ZrTe5). By coupling it with superconducting contacts, we induce superconductivity and observe a nearly periodic magnetic interference pattern of the supercurrent. Reconstruction of the spatial supercurrent distribution reveals two pronounced edge channels carrying the dominant current, indicative of weak topological insulating behavior. This phase-sensitive approach establishes Josephson interferometry as a broadly applicable method for detecting topological edge states and probing superconducting correlations, with potential application in topological quantum devices and superconducting quantum electronics.