When broken down into small pieces, some of the most important technologies we use everyday rely on fundamental elements of physics. From our cell phones to the tools astronomers use to study the planets, understanding the movement of particles down to the level of the electron is of vital importance. In some cases, the behavior of electrons can be manipulated in useful ways. For instance, low dimensional electron systems, in which one or more spatial dimensions are small enough to restrict the quantum mechanical wavefunction of electrons contained inside, are inherently dominated by quantum effects and correlations between electrons, leading to a host of unusual properties, fascinating new states of matter, and unique application possibilities. Dr. Nina Markovic, Associate Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Johns Hopkins University, investigates quantum transport in low dimensional systems. In particular, she and her team aim to design quantum matter in nanostructures by controlling the size, shape, and boundary conditions. The focus of her recent work is superconducting nanowires, which represent a model quantum system that can provide general insight in quantum phenomena. Additionally, they are the basic elements of quantum devices, such as photon detectors and superconducting quantum computers. Her research is on the cutting-edge of discovery and control of novel quantum phenomena.

While of significant importance to fundamental understanding, which drives the development of technology, Dr. Markovic’s research will also have a direct impact on technologies that are already in progress. For example, photon detectors can be used by astronomers to image the universe while superconducting quantum computers will potentially provide unprecedented computing power that current technologies cannot handle. Dr. Markovic’s sophisticated techniques have lead to the development of tools that help to elucidate fundamental physics while leading to the conception of novel technologies that will impact the lives of people globally.

Current research includes:

• Fabrication Methods: Dr. Markovic and her team have developed innovative 3D nanoprinter techniques for fabrication of custom nanostructures. By incorporating this technique with a high vacuum chamber, her group hopes to create model systems that will bring fundamental physics to light while producing novel device applications.

• Superconducting Nanowires: Using her unique fabrications methods, Dr. Markovic is creating new types of superconducting nanostructures. Her methods allow for the precise control of the properties of the nanowires without breaking the vacuum. In fact, her team has been able to fabricate nanowires with dimensions smaller than 10nm. By using these methods, Dr. Markovic’s group hopes to use the nanowires to study their quantum properties in a controlled and tunable way. In the future, Dr. Markovic hopes to use this fundamental knowledge to create novel devices.