Research program
We generate intense infrared and Terahertz radiation with an unprecedented tuning range in one single facility. This radiation interacts with molecules and materials and that way can reveal detailed information about 3D structure, functional properties and electronic properties.This is relevant for a broad spectrum of disciplines like biology, (astro)chemistry and physics.
Our local research program is executed in three research groups and one technical group, all with their own focus. We are scientifically embedded within the Institute of Molecules and Materials. Its mission is to perform fundamental research to understand, design and control the functioning of molecules and materials.
Condensed Matter Physics
Understanding the functionality of matter, in order to learn to manipulate it with electromagnetic radiation from visible to THz.
FELIX Infrared and THz spectroscopy
Exploring the Infrared and Terahertz radiation of the FELIX lasers to study properties of molecular systems and (soft) condensed matter.
Molecular Structure and Dynamics
Applying FELIX lasers in spectroscopic studies to identify molecular structures, for instance of low-abundance compounds within complex mixtures.
FELIX FEL Technology
The technology behind our free-electron lasers.
Collaborations
The FELIX laboratory is part of the Max Planck Radboud University Center for Infrared Free Electron Laser Spectroscopy.
The High Field Magnet Laboratory (HFML) is connected to FLARE and FELIX radiation. The radiation energies match magnetic excitations like cyclotron and spin resonance in high magnetic fields. Furthermore, excitations in solids like the superconducting gap and anti ferromagnetic resonances are at the same energy.
We collaborate with the Translational Metabolic Laboratory (TML) of the Radboudumc to provide an unique analytical service for metabolite (biomarker) identification.
Furthermore, we have formal collaborations with:
- The UK’s ESPRC to support access of UK users managed by prof. B. Murdin, University of Surrey.
- University of Cologne which maintains a beamline with a cold 22-pole ion trap for astrochemical studies, led by prof. S. Schlemmer.