Topological superconductivity in superconductor–semiconductor heterostructures

Superconductor–semiconductor heterostructures represent a versatile platform for realizing Majorana zero-energy modes. In this talk, I will explain how to engineer topological superconductivity at the interface of a conventional (s-wave) superconductor and a semiconductor with spin-orbit interaction. I will discuss state-of-the-art numerical approaches for modeling realistic devices which take into account proximity-induced superconductivity, orbital and Zeeman effect of an applied magnetic field, spin-orbit coupling as well as the electrostatic environment on equal footing. Finally, I will review recent materials science progress in growing superconductor–semiconductor heterostructures and discuss promising new directions.