My research focuses on magnetism at the smallest scale: individual atoms and molecules with their quantum mechanical property called spin. This spin property plays a large role in the interactions between atoms and is at the basis of magnetism. How the spin behaves of atoms laying on top of a non-conducting surface like salt, is well understood. Also for atoms on top of simple metallic surfaces it is rather clear. Less known is what happens for surfaces that either conduct extremely well (superconductors) or badly (semiconductors). To study this I used a microscope called a scanning tunneling microscope that can image, measure and even move single atoms on a surface. The samples I studied were put in ultra high vacuum and cooled to extremely low temperatures (30 millikelvin), to keep them clean of contamination and make sure the atoms and molecules I wanted to study sit still. To investigate the magnetic properties, I used an applied magnetic field. However, as superconductors usually break when you apply a magnetic field, we had to come up with a new way of measuring it. The results I found help to understand the fundamentals, and are steps towards the quantum technologies of tomorrow.
Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by questions like why glass is transparent, why some materials are magnetic, and why does metal feel colder than wood if they are both at room temperature? These seemingly simple questions often have deep complex answers. My curiosity for the world around us led to studying physics and astronomy at the Radboud University. Later in my master, I specialized in condensed matter physics. This field aims to understand how atoms interact and lead to the properties of materials. It is at the heart of much of modern technology and could help tackle challenges such as clean energy and efficient computing. After my master’s I continued with a PhD at the Scanning Probe Microscopy research department where I had enjoyed my internship. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at the Radboud, and am currently looking for opportunities in industry.