Physics Colloquium

Ken Burch, Boston College

Quantum Materials: a New Paradigm for Sensing

Abstract: Quantum materials provide responses and states of matter with no classical analogues. As such they offer opportunities to create an array of platforms for future devices crucial to human health, energy efficiency, communications and imaging. I will begin by describing the physics challenges and sensing opportunities these materials offer. I will then focus on our use of the relativistic electrons in graphene for biosensing. Specifically we have developed a new platform for multiplexed, rapid, easy to use detectors of biological analytes. I will discuss the unique aspects of graphene involved resulting in our demonstration of the detection of antibiotic resistant bacteria, decease biomarkers in saliva, opioids in waste water and respiratory infection at clinically relevant levels. Time permitting I will explain our efforts to use quantum materials to create new quantum simulators.