Chris Rodgers

As a postdoc in the research group of Prof Tim Softley, I helped to explore the chemistry at ultra-cold temperatures of species such as CH₃F or CH₂F₂ in their reactions with Ca⁺ ions help in an ion trap. Preliminary experiments were performed using a “Stark decelerator” for the generation of cold (~1 K) molecules of such species. I also explored methods for spectroscopic detection of these same species by REMPI spectroscopy. This research helped me to develop my experimental skills and furnished me with a range of new experience in laser physics and spectroscopy.