Institute for Solid State Physics, the University of Tokyo

Observation of a photocurrent reflecting magnetic states in an atomically thin magnetic material

In this study, researchers investigate the photocurrent response of a bilayer atomically thin antiferromagnet, discovering a finite current generated by illumination even without applied voltage. The direction of the photocurrent reverses between two antiferromagnetic states, directly reflecting the material's magnetic configuration.

SourceInstitute for Solid State Physics, the University of Tokyo·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2026

Discovery of a new principle: chiral molecules adhere to magnets

Researchers found that vibrational motion in chiral molecules leads to the emergence of spin that depends solely on chirality. This phenomenon enables chiral molecules to exhibit magnetic properties without an applied current.

SourceInstitute for Solid State Physics, the University of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 29, 2025