Research
The main topic of our research is the manipulation of polar molecules using external fields. We work on methods to obtain perfect control over polar molecules, because this will allow us to perform precicison tests of fundamental physics, and study complex many-body interactions mediated by the strong dipole-dipole interaction. Our experiments are typically a team effort, to which all PhD students contribute. Nonetheless, we can define the following projects currently running:
- A travelling wave decelerator for heavy diatomic molecules
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PhD Student: Joost van den Berg |
We are setting up a novel type of Stark decelerator that makes use of traveliing potential wells to bring heavy diatomic molecules to a standstill. |
- Lasercooling of SrF molecules
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PhD Student: Corine Meinema |
We are applying lasercooling techniques to diatomic molecules, in order to create a very cold (150 microKelvin) sample of SrF molecules that is an ideal starting point for precision spectrosocopy. |
- Orientation and manipulation of small molecules using external fields
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PhD Student: Sreekanth Mathavan |
We are aiming to apply the techniques we have developed to manipulate heavy diatomic molecules using external fields to slightly larger molecules, for various applications. Furthermore, we are investigating and optimizing various molecular beam sources. |
- Electrical and optical trapping of polar molecules
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PhD Student: Artem Zapara |
We are working on combining various trapping and cooling techniques in order to obtain ultracold samples of polar molecules, in preparation for precision spectroscopy and the exploitation of the strong dipole-dipole interaction. |
| Last modified: | 17 February 2020 09.14 a.m. |