Project A01

Understanding and steering nonequilibrium energy flow in metal molecule hybrids at the nanoscale

Principle investigators: Matias Bargheer, Carsten Henkel, Henrike Müller-Werkmeister

This project aims at providing an experimental basis for a thorough characterization of the electronic and vibrational heat energy and its transport within nanoscale metals and adjacent molecules including solvents upon optical excitation of the metal. Theoretical modelling will help to bridge ultrafast pump-probe dynamics with stationary non-equilibrium situations for continuous wave excitation, taking into account the quantum nature of the system.

Position 1 (ID no. CRC1636A01-1/2023; apl. Prof. Carsten Henkel, University of Potsdam):

Responsibilities:

Modelling nanoscale energy transport, bridging microscopic and macroscopic approaches. Characterising micro-cavity modes and developing ultrafast simulations for 2D (pump-probe) spectroscopy with molecules in cavities.

Qualifications:

Master's degree in physics or related fields at the time of project start. Communication skills between theory, simulation, and experimentalists. Background in electromagnetism, matter-light-interactions, quantum many-body systems, and in numerical modelling.

Position 2 (ID no. CRC1636A01-2/2023; Prof. Matias Bargheer, University of Potsdam):

Responsibilities:

Ultrafast optical and infrared spectroscopy as well as ultrafast x-ray diffraction experiments at our unique laser-driven femtosecond X-ray source or at free electron lasers. Modeling of the nanoscale energy transport.

Qualifications:

Master's degree in physics or a related discipline at the time of project start. Interdisciplinary mindset and excellent communication skills for working in the team. Ideal candidates have a background in ultrafast science, X-ray scattering, plasmonics and/or numerical modelling via python or COMSOL. Experience with physical chemical, colloid science etc. will be helpful.