  We investigate the possibility of using structural disorder to induce a
topological phase in a solid state system. Using first-principles calculations,
we introduce structural disorder in the trivial insulator BiTeI and observe the
emergence of a topological insulating phase. By modifying the bonding
environments, the crystal-field splitting is enhanced and the spin-orbit
interaction produces a band inversion in the bulk electronic structure.
Analysis of the Wannier charge centers and the surface electronic structure
reveals a strong topological insulator with Dirac surface states. Finally, we
propose a prescription for inducing topological states from disorder in
crystalline materials. Understanding how local environments produce topological
phases is a key step for predicting disordered and amorphous topological
materials.
