Laboratories

We use ultrashort light pulses to investigate the fundamental electronic interactions in quantum materials, such as unconventional superconductors, Mott insulators, transition-metal dichalchogenides, halide perovskites. We aim at understanding and controlling the properties of these quantum materials by applying suitable excitation protocols. By using quantum light and innovative multidimensional spectroscopies we want to develop quantum coherent control protocols, with the goal of performing quantum operations at ambient temperatures in realistic devices.

Contact: Claudio Giannetti

Our lab explores complex systems at the interface between matter and environment — where atoms meet, react, and redefine functionality. Combining advanced surface analysis with state-of-the-art spectroscopic techniques, the lab investigates the electronic structure, chemical reactivity, and morphology of materials relevant to sensing,  energy conversion, catalysis, and nanotechnology. 
Today, our mission extends beyond understanding surfaces: we aim to span the entire path from surface phenomena to functional devices. Through an integrated approach that connects fundamental surface science with materials engineering and device fabrication, we strive to translate atomic-scale insights into real-world technological solutions.
Recently, we developed and patented e-noses based on CNT sensing layer arrays, as well as virtual e-noses based on a novel driving of GFET electronics. 

Contact: Luigi Sangaletti

Established in 2000, in the lab we study the growth mechanisms and physical properties on state of the art nanoscale and nanogranular materials, with an eye to applications spanning from electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and antimicrobial surfaces. Recently we started a new research line developing methods and models to identify nanoplastics by optical means. XPS and STM as well as supersonic growth of nanoparticles are key assets of the lab.

Contact: Luca Gavioli

We are interested in the non-equilibrium properties of condensed matter systems that arise from the interaction with quantum light. By combining time-resolved photoelectron and optical spectroscopy techniques, we investigate the ultrafast electron and lattice dynamics triggered by sub-picosecond light excitation.
Our goal is to uncover, and ultimately control, fundamental mechanisms such as electron coupling to bosonic excitations (including phonons and magnons), as well as photoinduced processes like exciton formation, dephasing, and relaxation, which govern the optoelectronic behavior of layered inorganic and organic semiconductors.
Through this research, we aim to advance the fundamental understanding of light–matter interactions and contribute to the development of more efficient, high-performance technologies, ranging from solar energy conversion to next-generation light-emitting devices.

Contact: Stefania Pagliara

We develop theoretical and numerical models of open quantum systems to understand how interactions and environment shape emergent phenomena. Our research spans cooperative effects in many body systems and quantum coherence in photosynthetic complexes, with insights relevant for future quantum technologies.

Contact: Fausto Borgonovi

We employ ultrashort laser pulses and advanced microscopy to explore atomically thin materials - including graphene and transition-metal dichalcogenides - capturing their ultrafast dynamics. Electromagnetic simulations guide experiments to extract transient optical conductivity, unveiling fundamental electronic behavior where quantum effects dominate. The development of innovative techniques achieves deep sub-wavelength lateral resolution and signal enhancement in Raman and fluorescence microscopy. We also utilize all-optical probes to measure mechanical properties of nanostructures without contact.

Contact: Gabriele Ferrini