Stabilization of a Majorana Zero Mode through Quantum Frustration.

Abstract

We analyze a system in which a topological Majorana zero mode (MZM) combines with a MZM produced by quantum frustration. At the boundary between the topological and non-topological states, a MZM does not appear. The system that we study combines two parts, a grounded topological superconducting wire that hosts two MZM at its ends, and an on-resonant quantum dot connected to two dissipative leads. The quantum dot with dissipative leads creates an effective two-channel Kondo (2CK) state in which quantum frustration yields an isolated MZM at the dot. We find that coupling the dot to one of the wire Majoranas stabilizes the MZM at the other end of the wire. In addition to providing a route to achieving an unpaired Majorana zero mode, this scheme provides a clear signature of the presence of the 2CK Majorana.