Jia-Xin Yin

Abstract The Kondo lattice model, as one of the most fundamental models in condensed matter physics, has been employed to describe a wide range of quantum materials. Discovering new phases on the Kondo lattice and unveiling their mechanisms are crucial to the understanding of strongly correlated systems. Here, in a layered Kondo magnet USbTe, we observe a spin-textured nematic state and visualize a heavy electronic liquid-crystal phase.

Abstract In pair density waves, the superconducting order modulates periodically in real space, breaking lattice translational symmetry. When a phase winding exists between pair density waves, time-reversal symmetry can also be broken, leading to topological pair density waves (TPDWs). These states illustrate an intriguing synthesis between unconventional superconductivity and topological quantum matter.

Abstract Understanding and controlling matter at atomic scales is critical for materials science and condensed matter physics, as many macroscopic properties stem from phenomena and mechanisms at sub-nanometre dimensions. Although optical spectroscopy remains a cornerstone of materials characterization, scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM) has become an essential tool because of its atomic-level spatial resolution.