Interplay between correlations and Majorana mode in proximitized quantum dot

Sci Rep. 2018 Oct 24;8(1):15717. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-33529-1.

Abstract

We study the low energy spectrum and transport properties of a correlated quantum dot coupled between normal and superconducting reservoirs and additionally hybridized with a topological superconducting nanowire, hosting the Majorana end-modes. In this setup the Majorana quasiparticle leaking into the quantum dot can be confronted simultaneously with the on-dot pairing and correlations. We study this interplay, focusing on the quantum phase transition from the spinless (BCS-type) to the spinful (singly occupied) configuration, where the subgap Kondo effect may arise. Using the selfconsistent perturbative treatment for correlations and the unbiased numerical renormalization group calculations we find that the Majorana mode has either constructive or destructive effect on the low-energy transport behavior of the quantum dot, depending on its spin. This spin-selective influence could be verified by means of the polarized STM spectroscopy.