Master Thesis

As part of a Priority Program on the Physics of the Interstellar Medium (SPP-ISM), the German Research Foundation (DFG) is funding a project to study aluminum-containing molecules in the gas phase.
We offer dedicated students the opportunity to participate in an internationally recognized project in laboratory astrophysics through supervised bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral theses. These projects provide fundamental and in-depth knowledge of molecular spectroscopy, laser and terahertz technology, as well as the generation of reactive, short-lived molecules in supersonic jet apparatus.

Learn more here about THz spectroscopy of small metal clusters.

As part of a master's thesis, an existing quantum cascade laser will be characterized and integrated into an existing supersonic jet experiment as a radiation source. Subsequent measurements of new carbon-silicon clusters will demonstrate the system's performance. This master’s thesis opens the door to more in-depth research on carbon-silicon clusters and their potential detection in space as part of a subsequent doctoral dissertation.

Click here for a brief project description and a description of our carbon jet experiment

In this master's thesis, existing experimental data on the HOOD molecule (simply deuterated hydrogen peroxide) will be analyzed, and supplementary measurements of the molecule's spectrum will be conducted. This data will be used to apply for observing time on a telescope, with the goal of detecting the molecule in interstellar space.

Detailed call for proposals for the master’s thesis

This master's thesis focuses on gaining a better understanding of molecules that exhibit internal rotation, using the HSOH molecule as an example. As part of this work, you will gain experience in hands-on laboratory work and participate in a measurement campaign at the SOLEIL synchrotron facility in France.

Detailed description of the master’s thesis on HSOH.