Understanding the magnetic gap and spin texture in designer ferromagnet-topological insulator-ferromagnet heterostructures

This thesis explores potential material platforms for realizing the quantum anomalous Hall effect at elevated temperatures—a phenomenon emerging from the interplay between magnetism and topology that enables dissipationless electrical transport. Using advanced thin-film growth and state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques, the research reveals the magnetic origin of the exchange gap in proximity-coupled magnetic topological insulators and demonstrates controlled manipulation of spin textures within these systems. By establishing how magnetic and electronic properties can be systematically engineered and tuned, this work contributes to the development of future low-power electronic devices and robust information-processing technologies.