Graphene spintronics is an emerging field of research that explores
the use of graphene's extraordinary spin and charge transport properties to
manipulate and control the electron spin degree of freedom for potential
applications in information processing and data storage. Particularly interesting
are graphene-based van-der-Waals heterostructures, which allow the creation of
tailored spintronic properties, emerging from proximity effects, without destroying
the unique Dirac states. The possibility to induce customized spin-orbit and
exchange coupling in graphene, via band structure engineering, can lead to
topologically protected edge states for dissipationless electronics and spintronics.
In flat-band graphene materials, in particular, magic-angle bilayer graphene and
rhombohedral (ABC stacked) trilayer graphene, the coupling between spin and
valley (orbital) degrees of freedom can be coupled by strong Coulomb interactions,
leading to a variety of fascinating correlated and superconducting phases. The
emerging isospin electronics, combining both the electron spin and valley flavors,
can transform the landscape of low-temperature electronics and lead to novel
functionalities based on quantum matter. This Perspective explores the latest
advancements in proximity effects, topological states, and correlated physics in
graphene-based van der Waals heterostructures, discussing the fundamentals for
potential applications.