This project investigates how ultrafast, high-intensity lasers can create and stabilise exotic, non-equilibrium material states. When materials are irradiated by ultrashort laser pulses at relativistic intensities, high-energy electrons are generated, initiating structural transformations that can produce unusual crystalline or amorphous arrangements. A major challenge is that these excited states typically relax rapidly into low-energy equilibrium phases. To overcome this, the project explores the role of ultrafast quenching in freezing these transient structures, preserving their unique properties.

Building on earlier demonstrations that ultrafast lasers can replicate extreme planetary and stellar-like conditions in the laboratory, this study focuses on branching electron pathways, controlling the conversion of laser energy into high-energy-density states, and revealing mechanisms that govern their formation. By systematically varying laser parameters and analysing the resulting material phases, students will investigate the fundamental processes that enable matter to reach and remain in far-from-equilibrium configurations.

The research not only deepens our understanding of light–matter interactions at unprecedented intensities, but also opens opportunities for practical applications. High-energy materials may exhibit novel mechanical, electronic, or optical properties, with potential relevance to energy storage, quantum materials, or advanced manufacturing.

The ultimate aim is to establish a new framework for producing and studying high-energy-density matter in quantities sufficient for experimental characterisation. Through this, students will contribute to uncovering the fundamental physics underlying energy conversion in relativistic laser–matter interactions, while gaining experience in laser science, material analysis, and high-field physics.

Required Background

• Undergraduate coursework in Physics (mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics)
• Strong foundation in Quantum Mechanics or Solid-State/Condensed Matter Physics
• Knowledge of Laser Physics and Optics (ultrafast lasers desirable)
• Familiarity with Materials Science (crystallography, phase transitions, amorphous vs crystalline states)
• Basic understanding of Plasma Physics and high-energy-density matter
• Laboratory experience with spectroscopy, microscopy, or laser-based experiments preferred
• Skills in data analysis, numerical simulation, or computational modeling advantageous