J.P. Marangos, M.Y. Ivanov, V. Averbukh, L.J. Frasinski, R.A. Smith, J.W.G. Tisch, Sir P.L. Knight FRS, M.A. Robb FRS and M.J. Bearpark, Imperial College London
This is a programme of advanced research with potential for high scientific impact and applications to areas of strategic importance to the UK, such as renewable energy and biomolecular technology. The aim is to develop and apply a combination of cutting-edge experimental and theoretical tools to observe and model dynamics in molecules and condensed phase matter with 100 attosecond temporal and nanometre spatial resolutions.
Imaging and controlling dynamics of matter at the level of electrons, especially far from equilibrium, and understanding the role of quantum coherence in molecules and nanoscale assemblies have been identified by the US Department of Energy as key components of five grand scientific challenges to basic energy sciences (Phys.Today, July 2008, p29-33). Our programme will enable the concerted effort and close linking of experiment and theory needed to address these questions. The UK has a unique opportunity for world leadership in this area, as we have assembled an exceptional team that commands all of the technical and theoretical tools required to lead this new and important area of science.
This programme is separated into four distinct projects:
Project 1: HHG Spectroscopy
Project 2: Attosecond pump-probe spectroscopy
Project 3: Coupling of charge migration and nuclear dynamics
Project 4: Probing attosecond dynamics in the condensed phase