Modern molecular physics

Participation in this module introduces the basic concepts of modern experiments in molecular physics. The students will acquire a detailed understanding of molecules and their interaction with external fields and other particles. The description of state-of-the-art experimental techniques is the focus of interest and it includes novel methods to bring large biomolecules into the gas phase. We will develop the skills to envision, plan, simulate, and eventually perform novel experiments in molecular physics to investigate the fundamental and applied aspects of molecular physics in quantum mechanics, chemistry, material science, and biology. Participants will be able to search for current (primary) literature to explore a new scientific field and to independently understand articles on the latest developments in molecular physics.Outline: • Introduction to modern physics experiments in molecular physics • Introduction to quantum mechanics for molecules • Interaction of classical light fields with molecules • Basics of molecular electronic structure • Basics of molecular rotational-vibrational dynamics • Control of molecular translational motion • Control and imaging of molecular rotations and vibrations • Sample delivery • Science at FELS and synchrotrons, diffractive imagin