Quantum microscopy for magnetic material characterisation

SPICE Young Research Leaders Group Workshop: Magnetism in van der Waals materials: current challenges and future directions, July 8th - 10th 2025

Alexander Healey

Quantum microscopy has become an established tool for visualising magnetic phenomena in condensed matter systems. By interfacing arrays of fluorescent solid state spins with a target of interest, we are able to obtain quantitative, calibration-free magnetic maps that provide complimentary information to traditional bulk measurements. In this talk, I will discuss recent progress in developing the utility and versatility of this technique. First, I will share a study looking at magnetic switching behaviours in orthogonally-twisted CrSBr homostructures. In this case, we utilise the well-established nitrogen-vacancy diamond system and an expanded analytic toolkit that allows full vector reconstruction of magnetisation. Finally, I will compare this implementation against an emerging one based on spins in hexagonal boron nitride, which holds promise for more versatile measurements and more seamless integration with 2D materials.