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402-0528-12L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-PHYS
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Ultrafast Methods in Solid State Physics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Steven Johnson, Dr. Matteo Savoini
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:54

Abstract

This course provides an overview of experimental methods and techniques used to study dynamical processes in solids. Many processes in solids happen on a picosecond to femtosecond time scale. In this course we discuss different methods to generate femtosecond photon pulses and measurement techniques adapted to time resolved experiments.

Objective

The goal of the course is to enable students to identify and evaluate experimental methods to manipulate and measure the electronic, magnetic and structural properties of solids on the fastest possible time scales. These "ultrafast methods" potentially lead both to an improved understanding of fundamental interactions in condensed matter and to applications in data storage, materials processing and computing.

Content

The topical course outline is as follows: 0. Introduction Time scales in solids and technology Time vs. frequency domain experiments Pump-Probe technique 1. Ultrafast processes in solids, an overview Electron gas Lattice Spin system 2. Ultrafast optical-frequency methods Ultrafast laser sources Broadband techniques Harmonic generation, optical parametric amplification Fluorescence Advanced pump-probe techniques 3. THz-frequency methods Mid-IR and THz interactions with solids Difference frequency mixing Optical rectification 4. Ultrafast VUV and x-ray frequency methods Synchrotron based sources Free electron lasers Higher harmonic generation based sources X-ray diffraction Time resolved X-ray microscopy Coherent imaging 5. Electron spectroscopy in the time domain

Resources

Lecture Notes

Will be distributed.

Literature

Will be distributed.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 20 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Ultrafast Methods in Solid State Physics
  • Fri 09:45-11:30 (HIT F 11.1)
2 h weekly
exercise Ultrafast Methods in Solid State Physics
  • Fri 11:45-12:30 (HIT F 11.1)
1 h weekly

Offered In