Patterning Superconductivity in a Topological Insulator

Abstract

While topological superconductors are predicted to provide building blocks for fault-tolerant quantum computing, one of the remaining challenges is to find a convenient experimental platform that would allow patterning of circuits. We find that superconductivity can be patterned directly into Bi$_2$Se$_3$ nanostructures by selective doping with palladium (Pd). Superconducting regions are defined by depositing Pd on top of the nanostructures using electron beam lithography, followed by in-situ annealing. Electrical transport measurements at low temperatures show either partial or full superconducting transition, depending on the doping conditions. Structural characterization techniques indicate that Pd remains localized in the targeted areas, making it possible to pattern superconducting circuits of arbitrary shapes in this topological material.