Markus Morgenstern

Prof. Dr. Markus Morgenstern is a University Professor and Head of the 2nd Institute of Physics B at RWTH Aachen University, where he leads the Chair of Experimental Physics (Solid State Physics). His research group, consisting of approximately 20 scientific staff members including post-docs, PhD students, and research assistants, focuses on cutting-edge condensed matter physics research with emphasis on quantum phenomena in novel materials.

Prof. Morgenstern's primary research interests span several interconnected fields: graphene physics, topological insulators, nano-magnetism, scanning tunneling microscopy development, semiconductor physics, and advanced instrumentation. His work particularly explores quantum Hall transitions in real space, topologically protected edge channels in weak topological insulators, mechanical manipulation of nanoscale membranes in graphene, magnetic skyrmion collapse mechanisms, and vortex core pinning to atomic-scale features. His group has made significant contributions to understanding pseudomagnetic fields exceeding 1000T in strained graphene systems.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on 2D magnetic materials (particularly transition metal phosphorus trisulfides like FePS₃ and MnPS₃), topological quantum phenomena, and advanced scanning probe techniques. His work bridges fundamental physics with potential applications in quantum computing and spintronics, with particular emphasis on how magnetic order affects electronic band structures in layered materials.

Prof. Morgenstern's laboratory features state-of-the-art equipment including time-resolved scanning tunneling microscopy with 100ps accuracy, scanning probes compatible with electron microscopes, and integrated readout electronics for scanning probe methods. His group actively develops new investigation methods to push the boundaries of nanoscale characterization.