Neutron and X-Ray Scattering

We use a variety of neutron and x-ray techniques to investigate the structure and dynamics of energy and quantum materials with properties that emerge from the presence of local defects and complex short-range correlations.

(Right) Experimentally observed neutron scattering and ab-initio calculation of the generalized susceptibility in the coherent state of CePd₃. (Left) The quantitative excellent agreement validates a decades old prediction of the crossover to random electronic excitations observed at high temperature

The objective of our research is to obtain an understanding of the critical roles of local disorder and short-range correlations in driving materials properties of importance for future energy applications. To progress towards this goal, we develop and utilize advanced methods based on neutron and X-ray scattering techniques to characterize and so determine the origin, nature, and consequences of the different long- and short-range ordered states found in crystalline materials with a variety of properties of interest. This knowledge is crucial for enabling the design of novel materials with desired functionality.

Current research themes are the following:

Method Development
Ionic Correlations and Lattice Strain
Complex Spin Correlations
Intertwined Order