Tuning the phase diagrams of novel superconducting materials

Novel superconducting materials are an unexpectedly rich playground to explore novel phenomena and properties in order to identify the key parameters which make them good candidates for future practical applications. This not only involves finding materials with high transition temperatures but also those with the highest critical current densities. The aim of this project is to characterize the superconducting phase diagram as a function of temperature, magnetic fields and external strain in single crystals, powder and thin films of superconducting materials. The project will be part of the recently funded Oxford Centre for Applied Superconductivity (CfAS) which links together the superconductivity research in the Departments of Physics and Materials with the local companies that utilise superconductivity in applications, such as Oxford Instruments and Siemens Magnet Technology. Experiments using advanced techniques for transport and thermodynamic measurements will be performed using high magnetic field facilities available in Oxford and elsewhere. The experimental data will be complemented by theoretical modelling and the project will involve further development of advanced experimental techniques.
The research will fall within the "Physical Sciences" EPSRC theme and the "Superconductivity" EPSRC research area. CfAS is funded by the Local Enterprise Partnership with contributions from the University of Oxford and local industrial partners.