Quantum materials play a critical role in advancing emerging quantum technologies, including quantum computing and quantum sensing. The field faces significant challenges, such as short coherence times, heightened sensitivity to environmental noise, and reliance on cryogenic refrigeration. 

In this presentation, I will illustrate how advanced spectroscopy techniques inform the development of two new platforms for quantum applications. The first is the quantum anomalous Hall system, characterised by dissipationless transport and complete spin polarisation [1]. I will outline an innovative approach that combines topological insulators with antiferromagnets to induce magnetisation at their interface via the proximity effect for its realisation [2]. NiO is a strong candidate for the antiferromagnetic component in such bilayers. Employing x-ray imaging and x-ray magnetic linear dichroism, I will illustrate that the antiferromagnetic spin-structure in NiO [3] can be effectively manipulated and controlled. 

The second platform is based on the emergent field of magnonics. The magnon band structure of a synthetic antiferromagnet (SAF) – consisting of optical and acoustic modes – will be probed using ferromagnetic resonance spectroscopy. I will show that the system can be easily tuned into a coherent 2-level system due to the magnon-magnon coupling effect. SAFs are an integral component of MRAM layer stacks, offering a direct path towards industrial applications. 

[1] F. D. M. Haldane, Phys. Rev. Lett. 61, 2015 (1988)
[2] G. Awana et al., Phys. Rev. Mater. 6, 053402 (2022)
[3] E. Heppell et al., Phys. Rev. Mater. 9, 014408 (2025)
[4] D. Backes, Appl. Phys. Lett. 127, 222404 (2025)