Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Notkestraße 85
22607 Hamburg


Leibniz University Hannover

Laser-matter interactions offer a plethora of possibilities to understand and manipulate matter with help of light. One of the ultimate aims of these research activities is to include light-nucleus interactions in these studies and to use lasers to interact directly with the nucleus. The surrounding electrons play a crucial role in many light-induced nuclear transitions. For example, 7-Beryllium, that is an indicator of solar activity, decays by capturing an electron into the nucleus. Other isotopes decay by exciting electronic states or inducing ionisation. Laser light can be used to initiate, observe in real time, and potentially control these electro-nucleus energy transfers.
In the proposal at hand a research program is proposed to establish time-resolved spectroscopy of photo-induced electron dynamics in the study of nuclear transitions. This mission will be ultimately accomplished by employing cutting-edge free-electron lasers to trigger and control electron motions associated with nuclear excitations. A deep understanding of such processes is likely to have a huge impact on a large range of disciplines. For example, in future we may employ laser-induced electron dynamics to accelerate the production of medical isotopes or to affect the natural decay of radioactive nuclei, with immense benefit for medical and environmental sciences.

Leader of the Helmholtz Young Investigators Group:

Dr. Andrea Trabattoni
Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY
Notkestr. 85
22607 Hamburg

Phone: +49 40 8998-6048
Email: andrea.trabattoni@desy.de

Partner university:

Leibniz University Hannover
Institut für Quantenoptik