We are interested in the spatio-temporal response of solid state surfaces, quantum materials, and nanostructures following ultrafast optical or electronic excitation. Our goal is to obtain an atomistic understanding of photoinduced processes on (sub-) nanometer length and femtosecond time scales by employing novel pump-probe schemes for ultrafast scanning probe microscopy (SPM). We envision to study, drive and control solid state matter in highly non-equilibrium states and probe its dynamics locally at atomic scales.

To achieve this goal, we are putting efforts into the development of ultrafast scanning probe methods, with a focus on broadband THz-gated STM combined with femtosecond optical excitation and optical photon-assisted femtosecond STM. Besides detecting the localized tunneling signals, we complement our methodological approach by local light detection and optical near-field techniques. For detailed information and updates, please follow our news below.

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Natalia has been granted a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowship to join IMDEA nanoscience in Madrid end of 2020. She will be involved in the development of near-field spectroscopic techniques coupled with optical tweezers. Congratulations Natalia!

Fabian Schulz joins our group as a postdoc to work on time-resolved imaging with THz-STM. Welcome Fabian!

Kerstin Haupt joins our group as a technician for broadband support in hardware and software issues. Welcome Kerstin!