We propose a simple experiment to determine whether vortices persist above the superconducting transition temperature $T_c$ in the pseudogap phase of high-temperature cuprate superconductors. This involves using a magnetic dot to stabilize a vortex in a thin cuprate film beneath the dot. We calculate the magnetic field profile as a function of distance from the dot if a vortex is present and discuss possible measurements that could be done to detect this. Finally, we comment on the temperature range where a stable vortex should be observable.

• Received 27 May 2010

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.82.060506