Prof. Sachith Dissanayake
Department of Physics and Astronomy
James Madison University

Abstract

The investigation of quantum materials represents a cutting-edge domain in scientific research and technological breakthroughs. These materials characterized by their distinct electronic, magnetic, and optical properties, display quantum mechanical effects observable at macroscopic scales and elevated temperatures. Such materials hold immense potential for groundbreaking applications like quantum computing, superconductivity, and advanced electronic devices. A key aspect of quantum materials is their tunable properties, which can be precisely controlled through chemical substitution, the application of electric and magnetic fields, and the alteration of strain or pressure. This underscores the critical role of the structure-property relationship in understanding their mechanisms. High-pressure application stands out as an efficient and clean method to modify the properties of quantum materials, marking a vibrant and rapidly evolving research area. The research conducted on quantum materials under high pressure is an area that poses significant challenges but has been making substantial progress in numerous facilities. Combining high pressure with with other control parameters like magnetic field and chemical substitutions makes it possible to achieve even more exotic phases in these materials. In my presentation I will delve into high-pressure neutron scattering studies on various quantum materials. This includes pressure induced superconductors MnP, and CePtSi₂, the topological superconductor MoTe2, and the magnetic system C9H18N2CuBr4l(DLCB), and CaCrGe3.  

 
Brief bio: Dr. Dissanayake obtained his Ph.D. from the University of Virginia in experimental condensed matter physics in 2015. Immediately after his Ph.D., he joined Oak Ridge National Laboratory as a postdoctoral associate in the Quantum Condensed Matter/Neutron Scattering division. In 2018, he started his second Postdoctoral position at Duke University and then worked as a research assistant professor at the University of Rochester. Currently he is working as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Physics and Astronomy, James Madison University. Dr. Dissanayake's research interests are in experimental condensed matter physics, which aims to discover, synthesize, and characterize novel quantum materials such as frustrated magnets, superconductors, and multiferroic materials.