Quantum Materials: Then, Now and Tomorrow

Since the early 20th century, quantum physics has transformed our understanding of materials. Toward the end of the century, scientists developed new material platforms with precise atomic configuration control, initiating the study of quantum materials. The modern understanding of quantum material systems requires the application of quantum physics to understand entangled many degrees of freedom in quantum systems, where emergent physical phenomena arise due to quantum correlation. Quantum effects in some materials can also provide topological states of matter where certain measurable physical quantities are protected from local perturbations. In this talk, we will review some of the key physical effects in quantum materials, starting with their historical development and current status. We will then argue that topology and collective phenomena give rise to emergent phenomena in quantum materials, providing a platform for the development of next-generation quantum devices with novel functionalities, such as dissipationless electronics and fault-tolerant quantum computing. We conclude our discussion with the prospect of quantum technology based on quantum materials.