The ability to map magnetic field sensitively and on the nanometer-scale – unlike global magnetization or transport measurements – overcomes ensemble or spatial inhomogeneity in systems ranging from arrays of nanometer-scale magnets, to superconducting thin films, to strongly correlated states in van der Waals heterostructures. Local imaging of nanometer-scale magnetization, Meissner currents, or current in edge-states is the key to unraveling the microscopic mechanisms behind a wealth of new and poorly understood condensed matter phenomena. I will discuss efforts in our group aimed at developing and applying high-sensitivity, high-resolution, non-invasive magnetic scanning probes. In particular, we have been developing scanning probes based on nanometer-scale superconducting quantum interference devices and ultra-sensitive magnetic force microscopy sensors. I will discuss recent imaging experiments with these tools on 2D and chiral magnets, which yield new insights into their underlying magnetism.

 

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