Arnab Satpati
arnabsatpati311@[Link]
Dear Prof. Fuhrer,
I am writing to express my strong interest in pursuing a PhD in your research group at Monash
University. My research background in low-dimensional quantum materials, van der Waals
heterostructures, and cryogenic electronic transport has motivated me to pursue experimen-
tal condensed matter physics, particularly the exploration of topological phenomena and novel
electronic states in two-dimensional materials. The opportunity to investigate topological elec-
tronics, graphene-based devices, and ferroelectric–topological material interfaces in your group
strongly aligns with my research interests and long-term career goals.
I am currently working as a Project Assistant at the Quantum Device Engineering Laboratory
(QDEL), Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE), Indian Institute of Science (IISc),
Bengaluru. My current research focuses on quantum capacitance spectroscopy and electronic
transport in low-dimensional van der Waals systems, particularly WTe2 -based heterostructures.
My work involves fabrication and characterization of devices using techniques such as glovebox
exfoliation of air-sensitive materials, dry-transfer assembly of van der Waals heterostructures,
hBN encapsulation, nanofabrication, and low-temperature transport measurements at cryogenic
temperatures. Through these studies, I have developed a strong interest in understanding
how electronic structure, topology, and quantum confinement govern transport phenomena in
quantum materials.
Prior to joining IISc, I completed my Master’s degree in Physics at IIT Kharagpur, where
my thesis focused on the development of biodegradable cellulose-based humidity sensors for
respiratory monitoring. This work provided extensive experience in device fabrication, electrical
characterization, and materials analysis using techniques such as XPS, FTIR, and FESEM. In
addition, I carried out a research internship at IISc on spin–orbit coupling-enhanced valley
polarization in twisted graphene–WSe2 heterostructures. During this project, I fabricated and
characterized complex van der Waals stacks and gained exposure to correlated electronic phases,
anomalous Hall effects, and the rich physics emerging from engineered two-dimensional systems.
I am particularly excited by your research on topological electronic devices and electrically
controlled topological phase transitions. The possibility of interfacing topological materials
with ferroelectrics to achieve low-energy electronic functionality is especially appealing to me
because it combines fundamental condensed matter physics with technologically relevant de-
vice concepts. My current work on WTe2 , a material closely connected to topological phases,
quantum spin Hall physics, and unconventional electronic states, has further strengthened my
interest in understanding how topology can be manipulated through external electric fields and
engineered heterostructures. I am also fascinated by your research on graphene-based ther-
moelectric devices and negative-capacitance transistors, which demonstrates how fundamental
quantum phenomena can be translated into innovative electronic technologies.
Through my research experiences, I have developed strong experimental skills in nanofabrica-
tion, low-temperature transport measurements, device characterization, and data analysis using
Python and scientific computing tools. I have hands-on experience with Raman spectroscopy,
AFM characterization, cryogenic transport measurements, lock-in techniques, and van der Waals
heterostructure fabrication. Equally importantly, I have learned to work independently while
collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary research teams. I am eager to apply these
skills to the challenging and innovative projects pursued in your laboratory while expanding my
expertise in molecular beam epitaxy, scanning tunnelling microscopy, and advanced quantum
device engineering.
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My long-term goal is to build a career in experimental condensed matter physics, focusing on
quantum materials and next-generation electronic devices. I believe that the interdisciplinary
environment and world-class research infrastructure available in your group would provide an
ideal setting for pursuing this goal. I am particularly excited by the prospect of contributing to
research aimed at realizing electrically tunable topological devices and uncovering new physical
phenomena in low-dimensional quantum materials.
Thank you for considering my application. I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss
potential PhD opportunities in your group. I have attached my CV for your consideration and
look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Arnab Satpati