Quantum materials can host unusual electronic states that do not appear in ordinary solids. Many of these states are topological, meaning their behavior is protected by symmetries and cannot be easily disrupted, similar in spirit to how certain particle properties in high-energy physics remain stable due to symmetry constraints. Being able to switch between different topological phases allows us to study new forms of matter and may eventually enable technologies such as robust quantum devices. In this seminar, I will introduce HfTe₅, a layered (van der Waals) material whose electronic properties can be tuned in real time during measurement. HfTe₅ offers an unusually flexible way to explore symmetry-protected phases, interaction-driven condensates, and topological transitions that have deep connections to concepts across physics. Its tunability and exotic phases make it a promising material for future applications in spintronics and topologically robust quantum technologies.