In this field of study, concepts of laser physics, in particular the structure, functioning and applications of lasers, are taught. It is shown how lasers can be used in spectroscopy to elucidate fundamental properties of atoms up to solids.

The methods presented cover a wide range of wavelengths and time scales. To resolve electron dynamics in molecules or solids, laser pulses with pulse durations down to the attosecond range are required. Chemical reactions, e.g. in photocatalysis, often take place in the nanosecond range. Effects resulting from the interaction of matter with strong laser fields are introduced in detail.

The goal of fundamental research is to develop experimental optical methods, to generate tailored laser fields and to make them useful for the study of matter.
On the theory side, the focus is on the development and applications of efficient numerical methods to simulate the quantum or classical dynamics initiated by laser fields.