IMX Colloquium - Quantum devices based on 2D moiré materials

Moiré superlattices formed by stacked and twisted 2D materials offer unprecedented control over electronic interactions, topology, and light–matter coupling. In this talk, I will show how graphene-based moiré structures can be engineered into quantum devices with functionalities beyond conventional semiconductors. We will discuss how nanoscale optoelectronic probes reveal correlated phases and quantum geometry, and how their interplay leads to practical quantum optoelectronic devices. These include ultra-sensitive broadband detectors for THz frequencies and mid-infrared single photon devices. Together, this points to a roadmap for scalable quantum technologies based on atomically thin moiré materials.

Bio: Prof. Frank Koppens is group leader at the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO). The Quantum Nano-Optoelectronics Group, led by Prof. Koppens, is at the forefront of researching the
fundamental science and potential applications of two-dimensional (2D) materials, focusing particularly on optoelectronic devices and interactions with light at extreme limits and at the
nanoscale. The group integrates the realms of nanophotonics, 2D materials, twisted 2D materials, topology, emerging phenomena, and strong light-matter interactions, creating a multidisciplinary research program.
Koppens has received the ERC starting grant, the ERC consolidator grant, and five ERC proof-ofconcept grants. Other awards include the Christiaan Hugyensprijs 2012, the national award for research in Spain, the IUPAP young scientist prize in optics, and the ACS photonics investigator award. Since 2018 Koppens is on the Clarivate list for highly cited researchers, in the physics category, and in 20220 he was elected as fellow of the American Physical Society.
Koppens is cofounder of Qurv technologies (qurv.tech), which develops Intelligence Through Vision applications. Koppens is also advisor of Axiomatic-AI (axiomatic-ai.com), which develops interpretable and verifiable AI for science & engineering.