Spin-Orbit Coupling, Strong Interactions, and Topological Character: By Design & By Serendipity

Abstract: This talk will wander through some developments from my group related to topological character of transition metal oxides (TMO). Certainly spin-orbit coupling (SOC) is a central feature, specifically the interplay between SOC and strong correlation effects as treated within density functional theory. Chern insulating phases within the "generalized phase diagram" of two TMO structural classes will be described.