Dynamically engineering ferroic order using THz light

Symmetry breaking order, such as spontaneous electric polarization and magnetization, underpin myriad current and future information storage and processing technologies. In this talk, I will describe how such ferroic order can be manipulated using selective optical excitation. Specifically, I will focus on the use of THz frequency light pulses to engineer crystal structures, and their associated ferroic properties, through the resonant driving of vibrational modes. I will highlight recent experiments on complex transition metal oxides showing the ability to generate, enhance, and tune ferroelectricity and magnetism. In addition, I will provide perspectives into emerging routes to design unconventional ferroic order and the landscape of non-equilibrium states through tailored driving protocols and atomic scale materials design.