Time-Resolved electron spectroscopy of a challenging highly innovative collective excitation study
Plasmons are collective modes of the solid-state electrons representing a characteristic elementary excitation in solids. In theory plasmons are simplified as quasi particles with a well-defined energy and momentum from the instant of their creation to their decay. The dynamics of plasmons and the concomitant liberation of solid-state electrons is not yet fully understood. It is the aim of the present project to unveil the dynamics of this complex many-body process with unprecedented temporal resolution. The fundamentals of plasmonics are at the core of this project, as well as technologies involving secondary and hot electrons. Albeit challenging, the above scientific vision of the applicant is not only innovative, but it is timely and relevant to various scientific and technological fields ranging from space technology, to photovoltaics and semiconductor industry, as well as life sciences and biology. With the advent of modern time-resolved experiments, the objective of the experienced researcher (ER) outlined above has realistically come within reach. The TRES-CHIC-ESt project will be carried out at a host institution which is a pioneer in the field of attophysics under a supervision offering optimal conditions for young researchers to widen their scientific horizon and to boost their careers, thus offering to the applicant the ideal environment to pursue her innermost desire: to become a world-class successful researcher. In exchange, the solid-state Physics background of the ER will enrich the perspectives of the hosting group, who among others will benefit from her prior experiences and collaborations. During her PhD-studies, as a MSCA ITN fellow, the ER has already studied the causal relationship between plasmons and secondary electrons using spectroscopy with correlated electron pairs. Finally, by following the example of successful female researchers with whom the ER collaborates, she is determined to improve the gender balance in her scientific environment