“The properties achieved in two-dimensional materials through twistronics could make quantum computing possible in the future”

Awarded the 18th BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Basic Sciences, Allan MacDonald discusses his contributions to the physics of two-dimensional materials and the origin of so-called “twistronics.” He explains his theoretical prediction of the “magic angle,” a phenomenon whereby, when two layers of graphene are stacked with a slight rotation, electrons dramatically slow down, giving rise to entirely new properties. Throughout the conversation, he reviews the major advances in this field since its discovery, as well as its potential future applications in areas such as superconductivity and the development of new materials with innovative electronic properties.

The BBVA Foundation Frontiers of Knowledge Award in Basic Sciences was awarded in its 18th edition to Allan H. MacDonald and Pablo Jarillo-Herrero for their pioneering work in the theoretical foundation and discovery of strongly correlated electrons in stacked and rotated monolayer materials.