In the field of antiferromagnetic spintronics, materials hosting topological bandstructure features are promising candidates to overcome the problem of the small ‘read-out’ signals typically exhibited by antiferromagnets. One such class of materials are the noncollinear antiferromagnets, whose chiral spin texture generates a large anomalous Hall effect (AHE). However, an outstanding challenge remains how to efficiently ‘write’ states to these materials; in other words, control their magnetic order parameter using spin torques.

In this tutorial, we will begin by introducing the structural, magnetic and electrical properties of two noncollinear antiferromagnets: Mn₃Sn and Mn₃Ir. We will build upon this by looking at the current-driven switching of Mn₃Sn, which we propose occurs via a novel mechanism combining heat and angular momentum transfer, called ‘seeded’-spin-orbit torque. In addition, we will discuss recent developments in using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism to probe the chiral magnetic structure of Mn₃Sn.

Finally, we will present a perspective for the new project B10, which joins the CRC/TRR227 program as part of the second funding period. We will outline our plans and objectives, which aim to begin exploring spin transport in these materials at the ultrafast timescale.

The talk can be followed in live broadcast via Webex and questions can be asked during the talk via a chat function or live afterwards. All microphones and cameras of the participants are muted during the lecture and are separatly open after the lecture to ask specific questions. For those who cannot attend the live broadcast, the lecture will be recorded, except for the participants' questions at the end of the lecture.