Investigating Spin Dynamics with Electron Microscopy

01.06.2026 - 31.05.2031
Research funding project

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) is a highly developed technology that employs wave properties of electrons to resolve structures at an atomic level. Unfortunately, for sensitive (e.g. biological) specimens, radiation-induced damage remains a significant limitation, preventing the observation of dynamics at relevant scales and hindering access to the ultimate resolutions achievable with TEM. ISDEM combines for the first time non-invasive magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques with electron microscopy. We will develop novel methods for microwave-pump electron-probe investigations of spin dynamics on the nanoscale. By detecting the phase shift induced on the free electron wavefunction by the sample's spin systems, this technique enables the probing of unique quantum features which was hitherto inaccessible in TEM. It captures not only the chemical shifts of the spins within their molecular environment but also their dynamics due to the surrounding quantum states. Since our technique allows for an aloof electron beam, not directly impacting the region of interest, radiation damage is highly suppressed. With this project, I envision bridging the extremely successful fields of electron microscopy and spin resonance spectroscopy, enabling novel analytic quantum tools for fundamental and materials science.

People

Project leader

Institute

Grant funds

  • European Commission (EU) ERC Consolidator Grant ERC European Research Council HORIZON I - Excellent Science Frameworkprogramme HORIZON EUROPE European Commission Call identifier ERC-2025-COG

Research focus

  • Quantum Metrology and Precision Measurements: 60%
  • Design and Engineering of Quantum Systems: 20%
  • Sensor Systems: 20%

Publications