1. Methods: Cavity enhanced absorption methods in the gas phase Luminescence Excitation (organic molecular crystals) Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) by means of metallic nano structures – planned Projects (applications): Trace gas detection – atmospheric, environmental physics Weak forbidden transitions – basic research aspects Diffuse interstellar bands – astronomical problem Systems with complex dynamical behaviour (theory…) Joint Research Group A.A. Ruth / M.W.D. Mansfield Molecular Laser Spectroscopy (Gas phase: supersonic jets, flow or static cells)

2. Methods: Z-scan method applied to thin films or solutions Laser ablation of noble metals and alloys in liquids Coherent phase control of molecular emissions – planned Projects (applications): New materials (Porphyrins and metal nanoparticles – colloids) Production and characterization of metal and alloy nanoparticles – formation of nano-wires, investigations into catalytic activities (fuel cell) Theoretical background knowledge and computational aspects (practical and theoretical) required for all areas. Joint Research Group A.A. Ruth / M.W.D. Mansfield Nonlinear Optical Research (solid, liquid and gas phase – nano structures)

3. Collaborations and Strong Links: Internal: Prof. D. Nikogosyan (Physics); Prof. J. Sodeau and Prof. D. Burke (Chemistry). External: TU Berlin and MPI Göttingen, Germany; FORTH, Heraklion, Greece, University of Paris-Sud, France. Joint Research Group A.A. Ruth / M.W.D. Mansfield Labs: Lab 116, dry dark room, G21A Equipment: (only major items) Lasers: 2 independent excimer pumped dye lasers, 2 Nd:YAG lasers, 3 diode lasers, 1 Ar+-laser; future 1 new Nd:YAG pumped dye laser. Absorption spectrometer, Double monochromators, several vacuum chambers and jet-setups, 3 wavemeters, several digital oscilloscopes counters and detectors, arc and hollow cathode lamps etc. Plenty of electronics and computers, various optics and vacuum equipment, 2 low temperature cryostats and other devices

4. Joint Research Group A.A. Ruth / M.W.D. Mansfield Skills: Required Good background knowledge in lasers, spectroscopy, atomic and molecular physics High level of motivation and interest - diligence Teaching and training benefits (dependent on project): Training in optics and laser techniques – practical experiences in laser applications Vacuum technology and gas handling Development of home-made set-ups, particularly computer interfacing of electronic devices (programming) Moderate level of theory and computational methods Preparatory methods of material systems (strongly dependent on project) Skills on publication and write-up of results – conference contributions Visits to foreign laboratories - exchange programmes ( German) Contact: Andy Ruth, Office G16 (Science Building), Tel: 490-2439, E-mail: a.ruth@ucc.ie Internet: http://phys27.ucc.ie/