Research directions & methods
Research
Understanding plasma and charged-particle dynamics through numerical modelling, diagnostic development and experiments.
Research overview
My research lies at the intersection of plasma physics, accelerator physics, numerical modelling and experimental diagnostics. A recurring theme is the dynamics of charged particles and plasmas, and the development of methods to understand, predict and measure their behaviour.
My earlier work addressed high-current ion beams, space-charge effects, beam transport and confinement in complex magnetic geometries. I subsequently focused on electric propulsion, developing kinetic and hybrid kinetic–fluid models for radio-frequency ion thrusters.
At the University of Rostock, I am currently involved in the IFuEL project, investigating laser-generated plasmas through numerical modelling and the development of plasma diagnostics and High Energy Density physics. I also maintain research collaborations with Goethe University Frankfurt, including work on atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP), hybrid PIC–fluid modelling and guidance of Master's-level research.
Current focus · University of Rostock
Laser–plasma interaction & high-energy-density physics
Intense laser irradiation of matter creates rapidly evolving plasmas, energetic particles and strong gradients in density and temperature. My interest is in connecting the physical processes occurring at the laser–target interface with measurable plasma and ion-beam properties.
Within IFuEL, this involves modelling laser–matter interaction, studying laser-driven ion production and developing diagnostics that can constrain ion energy distributions, charge states and plasma conditions. A particular goal is to use complementary measurements and simulations to interpret the behaviour of laser-generated plasma sources.
Computational plasma physics & scientific software
Numerical modelling is central to my research, ranging from single-particle tracking to kinetic plasma descriptions and fluid-based approaches. My work includes Particle-in-Cell (PIC) methods, Monte Carlo collision models, hybrid kinetic–fluid formulations and high-performance scientific computing.
I have worked on the development and application of PlasmaPIC for radio-frequency ion thrusters and on the ZR hybrid PIC–fluid modelling approach. I am particularly interested in choosing models appropriate to the relevant physical scales and in comparing their predictions with measurements.
Electric propulsion & atmosphere-breathing propulsion
Radio-frequency ion thrusters provide a challenging setting for plasma modelling because the discharge, neutral-gas dynamics, ion extraction and material interactions are coupled. My previous research examined plasma properties and ion transport in miniature thrusters using kinetic and hybrid numerical descriptions, with experimental comparisons where available.
My continuing interests include atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) and the development of the ZR hybrid PIC–fluid framework. This work aims to support the study of plasma generation and transport, with experimental investigation and model validation forming part of the longer-term direction.
Accelerator physics & charged-particle transport
My background in accelerator physics includes the production, transport, manipulation and confinement of ion beams. Topics include space-charge effects, magnetic beam optics, RF ion guiding and transport in toroidal magnetic fields.
These interests developed through research on the stellarator-type figure-8 storage ring (F8SR), the Frankfurt Neutron Source (FRANZ) and the NSCL cyclotron gas stopper. This experience continues to inform my approach to particle trajectories, electromagnetic-field modelling and experimental diagnostics.
Experimental diagnostics & model validation
A measurement becomes most useful when its relation to the underlying particle or plasma distribution is understood. I am interested in the design of diagnostic instruments and in using numerical models to interpret their signals and limitations.
My previous work includes ion-beam profile measurements and comparisons between simulated and measured beam behaviour. My current IFuEL activities include time-resolved Faraday cup measurements, Thomson parabola spectrometry for ion energy and charge-state characterization, and X-ray spectroscopy for plasma characterization.
Research approach & collaboration
I aim to connect physical questions, numerical models and experimental observations. Simulation helps identify relevant mechanisms and guide instrument design; experiments provide the constraints needed to test and refine those models.
Collaborative research and the scientific guidance of students are important parts of this process, particularly through my continuing work with Goethe University Frankfurt and my present research at Rostock.
For specific facilities, simulations and results, please see the Projects page and my Publications.