Perspective on skyrmion spintronics

Magnetic skyrmions are attractive for representing data in next-generation spintronic devices owing to their stability, small size, and ease of manipulation with spin torques. In order to realize such devices, it is necessary to be able to write, manipulate, and read back data by means of nucleating, propagating, and detecting skyrmions using an all-electrical approach. Here, we review the basic concepts underpinning magnetic skyrmions, describe our recent results on their electrical nucleation, propagation, and detection, and offer some perspectives for future research in this vibrant field.