Floriane Grollau: Helium Droplets in a Laser Beam

Floriane Grollau is a PhD student in physics. At the interactions, dynamics and lasers laboratory (LYDYL - Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS), she explores "the spectroscopy and dynamics of triplet states of organic molecules hosted in helium droplets".

Tell us about your thesis subject and your research work.

I work in the field of molecular spectroscopy to explore the excited states of matter. When molecules are not tampered with, they are in the “ground state”. When they are given energy, with a laser for example, they move into a so-called “excited state”. Different energies generate different movements in the molecule. I use an experimental method called “Gouttelium". Small helium droplets with a diameter of several nanometres are generated. I then place molecules I consider interesting in them. Then I excite the molecules with a laser to study their excited state and observe their behaviour.

What is your academic background?

After high school, I followed a preparatory course in mathematics and physics. Then, I joined a fundamental physics “Magistère” (post-graduate programme) at Orsay for the third year of my undergraduate degree. I continued with a Master’s programme there. I completed the second year of my Master’s programme at Paris-Saclay, specialising in laser optics matter, my current field. I am currently in the second year of my thesis.

Why did you decide to participate in the My Thesis in 180 Seconds competition?

I think it is a very interesting exercise. During the first year of my preparatory course, I was in touch with a person who won. It was fantastic. I wanted to participate. I did not participate last year. This year, I am participating with a group of friends. We motivated each other.

What do you intend to do when you finish your thesis?

I don't know. Prospects for recruitment in research are poor, so I am beginning to consider opportunities in industries related to my field. I will also consider an academic career if good opportunities come my way.