The topics discussed include modern applications of fluorescence/phosphorescence and Raman spectroscopy. Attention will be given to energy transfer mechanisms and the use of fluorescent probes, high-resolution fluorescence at cryogenic temperatures, single-molecule spectroscopy and coupling to analytical separation techniques. Raman spectroscopic topics will include surface-enhanced Raman, resonance Raman, time-resolved Raman and non-linear Raman techniques. Instrumental aspects, such as laser excitation, time-resolved detection, polarization and imaging will also be covered in this course.
Recent examples of the use of these techniques in a chemistry, medical, environmental, industrial, forensic or space research context will be discussed on the basis of literature presentations by the students. The course also includes a set of fluorescence and Raman experiments at VU LaserLaB. In small groups the students will carry out a set of experiments, of which the results will be laid down in a report and an oral presentation.
The student teams will also prepare a presentation on a recent literature article, to be given and discussed in class.