This experimental research project is devoted to exploring unusual phenomena in anisotropic magnetism and superconductivity. Emphasis is placed on the relation between materials structure and electronic properties. The work is materials-based and involves synthesis of new materials, growth of single crystals and of epitaxial films, and microstructure manipulation. A wide range of experiments to be employed includes SQUID magnetometry; magnetic, elastic and dissipative measurements using high-Q oscillators; surface analysis, NMR, and heat capacity. Specific topics will include magnetic excitations and anisotropy of infinite layer cuprates; competition between Kondo/heavy fermion behavior and 3d transition metal magnetism in two Ce-based compounds; and effects of surface structure on spin excitations in ultrathin ferromagnetic films, including the engineering of specific magnon dispesion features. In this work, the unity in one project of a wide array of synthesis, charcterization and analytical techniques will provide the graduate students with an excellent training in areas of materials science and physics. %%% This experimental research project is centered on discovering the relations between structure of materials and those electronic properties which may be particularly useful in technology, including magnetic properties and superconductivity. The work includes synthesis of novel materials in the form of single crystals, epitaxial films and will also explore effects of microstructure manipulation. Methods will include use of sensitive magnetic property measurements, surface analysis, and nuclear magnetic resonance. Results from this research may include unusual new effects or structures which may find application in technology. This research project is interdisciplinary in nature and involves undergraduate and graduate students who will be excellently trained to enter positions in industry, government or education. ***
