Nonequilibrium Quantum System Dynamics
Head: Prof. Dr. Dragan Mihailović
Duration: 01.01.2022-31.12.2027
ARRS number: P1-0040
The aim of the research program is to investigate complex nano-systems, focusing on nonequilibrium dynamics of new and existing nano-materials, nonperiodic inhomogeneous matter, and biological nanosystems, as well as the relations between their dynamic properties and function.
The program encompasses synthesis of nanomaterials (in particular nanowires and nanotubes based on transition-metal chalcogenides), research of their interaction with organic molecules (e.g., proteins and DNA) via different functionalization routes, and construction of sensors and related devices using electron beam and tunneling nanolithography techniques. Dynamical properties of complex nanosystems will be characterized using various physical measurement techniques, ranging from measurements of spin dynamics via magnetic, optical and single-molecule nano-transport measurements to femtosecond spectroscopy studies. The main strengths of the proposed program are derived from a strong interdisciplinary approach, based on new materials and new research techniques pioneered at the Jozef Stefan Institute, facilitating capitalisation and technology transfer to industry on one hand, while at the same time performing a basic research program at the forefront of science, on the other.
Light and Matter
Head: Prof. Dr. Irena Drevenšek Olenik
Duration: 01.01.2022-31.12.2027
ARRS number: P1-0192
Interaction of light with matter is one of the most important fields of physics. Many of the phenomena are in the forefront of basic research interest, while the technologies based on optics are becoming indispensable in a large part of modern industry. At the same time optical and spectroscopic methods are among the most fundamental in a large part of physics and material science.
Research program Light and Matter comprises experimental investigations of optical phenomena in soft matter, interactions of light with matter, as well as possible applications in photonics, information technology and medicine. One of the main topics are investigations of properties of liquid crystals, in particular ferromagnetic liquid crystals that were recently discovered in our group. The research includes material synthesis and functionalisation, characterisation, and possible applications. The work is extended to other liquid crystalline phases, including the newly discovered splay nematic phase, liquid crystal elastomers and their use for production of optical elements, magneto-active liquid crystal elastomers, and self-assembled biological materials, such as guanosine derivatives.
Another important part of the research is manipulation of matter with light, specifically with optical tweezers (optical tweezers microrheology) in combination with magnetic tweezers (formation of biomimetic systems, investigations of stable 2D mesophases), and extensions to thermophoretic tweezers for single particle manipulation and thermal pumps for collective gathering of microparticles. Further topics include nonlinear and integrated optics with a great potential for new applications in the UV and THz spectral range. The work is done in close collaboration with Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, University of Ljubljana.
Medical Physics
Biomedical Optics Group
Head: Prof. Dr. Robert Jeraj
Head of Biomedical optics group: Prof. Dr. Boris Majaron
Duration: 1.1.2022 – 31.12.2027
ARRS number: P1-0389
Medical physics is an interdisciplinary research field aiming at development of novel applications of physical processes and techniques in various fields of medicine. Medical physics has and continues to have a profound impact on the practice of medicine by developing improved imaging and treatment technologies, and helping to advance our understanding of the complexity of the disease. Medical physics is intimately connected to medicine, which is experiencing a dramatic shift from acute to chronic disease.
This shift has resulted in (1) diagnostic procedures that are becoming more extensive, (2) therapies that are becoming more personalized and (3) better understanding of incredible complexity of the disease. Addressing these challenges is leading to the New Medicine (“The 4 P’s of Medicine”): medicine that is more Predictive, Personalized, Preemptive, and Participatory. We have assembled a unique interdisciplinary MPRP research team that includes members from the major Slovenian university (University of Ljubljana), the major research institute (Jozef Stefan Institute), the comprehensive cancer center (Institute of Oncology) and the main tertiary hospital (University Medical Center Ljubljana).