PhD position Theoretical Modelling of Plasmon-enhanced High-harmonic Generation Spectroscopy in Molecules, Computational Chemistry, University of Trieste, Italy

Laser-induced high-harmonic generation in molecules interacting with plasmonic nanostructures: modelling and experiments
This PhD project centers on the theoretical modeling of high-harmonic generation (HHG) in gas-phase molecules interacting with plasmonic nanostructures. By harnessing the plasmonic fields generated through external pulses and their interaction with the molecule’s electronic density, we aim to amplify the HHG signal. This approach could significantly reduce the necessary peak intensity of the generating laser pulse, making HHG detection more efficient.

The theoretical work will be conducted under the guidance of Prof. Emanuele Coccia at the University of Trieste and will be closely integrated with experimental studies performed at Elettra, led by Prof. Giovanni De Ninno of the University of Nova Gorica and Elettra. This collaborative approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of plasmon-mediated HHG.

Key research objectives include exploring the role of molecular alignment relative to nanostructures in producing plasmon-enhanced HHG spectra and examining how the shape, material, and geometry of nanostructures influence these spectra. The project will also investigate the effects of circularly polarized pulses on HHG and plasmonic interactions.

The ideal candidate should possess:

• A solid foundation in quantum chemistry methods (prior experience in plasmonics or HHG is not mandatory).
• Strong communication skills for close collaboration with experimental teams.
• The ability to thrive in a multidisciplinary environment with diverse expertise.

Additional desirable qualifications include prior experience in a spectroscopy laboratory and a willingness to contribute actively to the experimental aspects of the project.

Emanuele Coccia, PhD
Head of the PhotoInduced Quantum Dynamics Group (PIQD Group) Professore associato di Chimica Fisica | Associate Professor of Physical Chemistry
Università degli Studi di Trieste | University of Trieste
Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche e Farmaceutiche
Via L. Giorgieri 1, n-34127 Trieste (Italy)
ecoccia@units.it
Tel.| Ph. +39 0405583972
Web: https://sites.units.it/cf/index.php/group-members?view=article&id=6&catid=2