Research

By harnessing some of the world’s highest continuous magnetic fields and the unprecedented wavelength span and pulse energies of our free-electron lasers we enable the discovery, visualisation and comprehension of previously unknown molecular structures and novel phases of matter.

We distinguish five main research lines, defined in close collaboration with the HFML-FELIX research team and our national partners. We also have a strong in-house research programme subdivided into six accomplished research groups with a focus on the creative use of high magnetic fields, intense infrared and THz free-electron lasers, and the combination thereof.

Research lines

Mapping and manipulating quantum phases of matter

This topic line aims to discover, understand, and ultimately control the exotic quantum phases that arise in condensed matter systems, thereby advancing the frontiers of quantum physics.

Non-equilibrium phases of matter

Studying the non-equilibrium dynamics, down to femtosecond time scales, will provide unique information about the complex interplay of various degrees of freedom in a solid.

Dynamic self-organisation in soft molecular matter

The mission of this topic is to delve deeper into the captivating dynamics of soft molecular systems, driven by their inherent capacity to spontaneously self-organize into mesoscopic structures.

Molecular structure identification and reactivity in infrared

Enable breakthroughs in physical, bio, environmental and medical chemistry using the unique and cutting-edge analytical instrumentation to resolve intricacies of chemical structure and interactions.

Innovative instruments for advanced spectroscopy

Studying matter using the world’s highest magnetic fields and infrared/THz radiation with unparalleled tunability, driving it into previously inaccessible states or phases and potentially revealing new functionalities.

Research groups

Condensed Matter Physics

The Condensed Matter Physics group uses the radiation of free electron laser FELIX to study both static and dynamic properties of matter.

Correlated Electron Systems

The Correlated Electron Systems group focuses on a variety of topics like unconventional superconductivity, low-dimensional metals, quantum critical phenomena and quantum magnetism.

FELIX Infrared and THz Spectroscopy

The FELIX Infrared and THz Spectroscopy group develops and uses mass spectrometric techniques in combination with advanced infrared and terahertz spectroscopy.

Molecular Structure and Dynamics

The Molecular Structure and Dynamics group combines and integrates mass spectrometry with IR spectroscopy, enabling them to obtain infrared spectral fingerprints for mass-selected ions inside the mass spectrometer.

Semiconductors & Nanostructures

The Semiconductors & Nanostructures group mostly studies quantum phenomena and transport in low-dimensional systems like graphene, oxide heterostructures and topological insulators.

Soft Condensed Matter & Nanomaterials

The Soft Condensed Matter & Nanomaterials group primarily conducts research on magnetic levitation, the alignment of molecular systems and in situ monitoring of crystal growth.

More information about our research lines, research groups and staff scientists will be added shortly.