Karl-Scheel-Sitzung und -Preis 2026

The microscopic coupling between atomic lattice vibrations (phonons) and charge carriers are at the origin of a plethora of condensed matter physics phenomena, such as superconductivity and charge density waves. These phonon-carrier interactions are also essential for explaining electrical and thermal transport, as well as energy conversion processes in materials for photovoltaics or future quantum technologies. Given their central role in nearly all condensed matter phenomena, gaining access to these microscopic interactions is essential. In this talk I will show how femtosecond electron diffraction yields unique insights into electron-phonon and phonon-phonon interactions, in systems such as two-dimensional materials, lead-halide perovskites and molecular crystals.