Docentship lecture: The Andreev reflection
- Date: 13 September 2024, 10:15–11:00
- Location: Ångström Laboratory, Å80121, Zoom: https://uu-se.zoom.us/j/62914359328
- Type: Docent trial lecture
- Lecturer: Dr. Jorge Cayao
- Organiser: Division of Materials Theory, Department of Physics and Astronomy
- Contact person: Jorge Cayao
The Department of Physics and Astronomy hereby invites all interested to a docentship lecture in the subject of Physics with specialization in Quantum Matter Theory.
Chairperson: Professor Annica Black-Schaffer
Representative of the Docentship Committee: Professor Carlos Pérez de los Heros
Abstract: Superconductivity is a unique manifestation of quantum mechanics on a truly macroscopic scale and constitutes a basic ingredient for the rapidly emerging quantum technologies. It is characterized by the ability to conduct electricity without energy loss and the expulsion of magnetic fields due to electrons binding together into so-called Cooper pairs below a critical temperature. While many materials exhibit intrinsic superconductivity, it is possible to induce superconductivity into almost any material by placing it in contact with a superconductor. This phenomenon is known as proximity effect and the key mechanism governing it is the Andreev reflection, where an incident electron from a normal state material is reflected back as a hole and induces the transfer of a Cooper pair into the superconductor. Therefore, engineering novel proximity-induced superconducting phases requires the fundamental understanding of Andreev reflections in superconducting systems.
In this lecture, I will discuss basic aspects of the Andreev reflection in various types of superconducting systems, including conventional superconductors in proximity to normal metals and topological materials. I will then focus on the Andreev reflection in a system of two coupled superconductors and will use this knowledge to explain the Josephson effect, which is another fundamental superconducting phenomenon. Finally, I will emphasize the role of Andreev reflections for detecting superconductivity as well as for realizing quantum devices.
The lecture is an obligatory teaching test for those applying for admittance as docent and it should be possible for students and others with basic academic education in the relevant field to follow it. The lecture lasts 40-45 minutes with subsequent discussion. The lecture will be given in English.
Welcome!