The goal of this project is to use lasers to shape free-space electron waves in time and space, to study the interactions of the shaped electron wave packets with nanosystems, and to engineer electron wave functions in ways that enhance the capabilities of electron microscopes.
One such approach is phase contrast electron microscopy, analogous to Zernike phase contrast in light microscopy. Following the initial demonstration of laser-based electron phase retardation, which enabled Zernike-like phase-contrast electron microscopy, we are working to further enhance the performance of the phase plate while exploring new physical phenomena.
We are also launching additional projects to explore new electron microscopy modalities enabled by laser control of electron waves.