Investigation of Current Channels at the Interface between Complex Oxide Heterostructures

The interface between SrTiO$_3$ and LaAlO$_3$, both perovskite oxide insulators, supports metallic and superconducting states under certain conditions. Previous unpublished data by Kalisky et al. shows spatial variation in the current flow in these interfaces, including enhanced conductivity associated with structural domains. The microscopic origin of this variation in conductivity is unknown. We extend the previous work to LaGaO$_{3}$/SrTiO$_{3}$, and NdGaO$_3$/ SrTiO$_{3}$ interfaces, observe similar stripe-like modulations in the current flow, and study their temperature and frequency dependence. Additionally, we plan to study how the current channels in LaAlO$_{3}$/SrTiO$_{3}$ change under a uniaxial strain. Investigation of these spatial variations may improve our understanding of the relationship between structure and conductivity in complex oxide interfaces.