Christian Bernhard

Christian Bernhard is Professor and Department Head at the Department of Physics within the Faculty of Science and Medicine at the University of Fribourg (Unifr) in Switzerland. He leads the Magnetism & Superconductivity research group, focusing on materials with strongly correlated electrons, particularly cuprate and iron arsenide high-temperature superconductors.

His research interests center on the superconducting and magnetic properties of complex materials, with special emphasis on thin films and multilayers of complex oxides. Bernhard's work explores the engineered interfaces between different materials to induce various electronic, magnetic and superconducting proximity-effects. Key research areas include the competition between superconductivity and ferromagnetism, spin-polarized transport through superconducting structures, and the development of superspintronic devices.

His experimental approach utilizes multiple advanced techniques including infrared and optical spectroscopy (ellipsometry), muon spin rotation, neutron reflectometry, and resonant x-ray spectroscopy and reflectometry. Much of this work is conducted at the Paul-Scherrer-Institut (PSI) in Villigen, Switzerland, and other large-scale facilities worldwide.

• Department Head, Department of Physics
• Professor, Faculty of Science and Medicine
• Head, Magnetism & Superconductivity Research Group

Bernhard's recent publications show a consistent focus on the interplay between magnetism and superconductivity, particularly in artificially engineered structures. His work spans from fundamental investigations of quantum states at interfaces to potential applications in next-generation electronic devices. The research demonstrates expertise in both theoretical understanding and practical fabrication of complex oxide heterostructures.

Bernhard maintains active collaborations with researchers at Stockholm University and other institutions worldwide, reflecting the international nature of his research program. His group employs advanced nanofabrication techniques including optical lithography, reactive ion etching, and focused ion beam to create specialized samples for study.