MRI: Development of a High Resolution UV-VIS Coherent Multidimensional Spectrometer

Spelman College, Atlanta GA

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, Professor Peter Chen from Spelman College and his undergraduate student colleagues will develop a high resolution UV-VIS coherent multidimensional spectrometer by extensively upgrading an instrument that has been used to demonstrate high resolution coherent 2D spectroscopy capable of obtaining new information in complex molecular (electronic) spectra. This coherent multidimensional spectrometer is unique because of its ability to analyze gas phase samples with higher spectral resolution than traditional one-dimensional methods. Professor Chen and his team will test the capabilities of the new instrument through extensive collaboraiton with research groups at Emory University, MIT, the Univeristy of Chicago, and Georgia Tech. The methods and instrumentation that is being developed by Professor Chen and his student collaborators will be useful in identifying the underlying molecular physics that makes some molecular spectra very difficult to understand. In addition, the spectrometer may also find use in identifying the photochemcial processes taking place in atmospherically important species. The undergraduates working with Professor Chen will learn valuable skills with lasers, electronics, optical detectors and the design of complex instruments, giving them an excellent background for work in graduate school or the wider technological workforce.