Theme 1: Structure and Dynamics of Molecules
Acquiring a detailed understanding of interactions between individual molecules is of great 
importance to physics and chemistry. The research theme Structure and Dynamics of Molecules unravels these interactions of molecules by building on a fundamental understanding of molecular structures. Processes that are studied include motions within (bio) molecules, as well as collisions between molecules and chemical reactions. Experiments are often based on advanced spectroscopic techniques such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and various laser techniques.
Molecular interactions
The specific systems under study are often of relevance to atmospheric, 
biophysical, analytical and astrochemical sciences. Examples are small to medium-sized molecules including biomolecules, non-covalently bound complexes, scattering and diffusion on ice surfaces, and collisions of molecules with atoms, molecules or surfaces. Ultimately, a full understanding of molecular interactions may allow us to actively control macroscopic systems, with applications ranging from more efficient chemical reactors to molecular quantum devices.
Examples of research in theme 1
- Tijs Karman: ‘I am curious to find out what is going on in simple molecular collisions’
- Daria Galimberti: ‘For me science is about asking questions, finding answers and asking new questions’
- Jolijn Onvlee: ‘I am fascinated by studying small molecules and atoms at the highest possible level of detail’
- Daniel Horke: 'In my research I have the best of both worlds: using physics tools to watch chemistry in action'
- Sandra Brünken: ‘I can see in the laboratory what is happening in space’
- Herma Cuppen: Computational chemist with a practical mind
- Bas van de Meerakker: ‘We are doing chemistry with only two molecules’
- Breath analysis through trace gas detection in Life Science Trace Gas research group
- Rapid diagnosis via blood, saliva and urine with infrared spectrometer in the Molecular Structure and Dynamics research group
