Spin-transfer torque effect in nanopillar superconducting-magnetic hybrid Josephson junctions

We have developed single nanopillar Josephson junctions with pseudo-spin-valve barriers with a feature size 50 nm or larger. We observed changes in Josephson critical current depending on the magnetization state of the barrier (parallel or anti-parallel) through the superconductor-ferromagnet proximity effect. The magnetization states of the pseudo-spin-valve barriers could also be switched with applied bias currents which is consistent with the spin-transfer torque effect in room-temperature spin valve devices. Our results demonstrate devices that combine superconducting and spintronic functions promising for a nanoscale cryogenic memory technology.