Jan Verlet

Professor Jan Verlet is a leading researcher in the Department of Chemistry at Durham University, specializing in the quantum dynamics of isolated anions, photon and electron-driven chemistry, and photochemistry at aqueous interfaces. He has pioneered novel methods for studying electron-molecule interactions, including real-time measurements of electron reactions and 2D photoelectron spectroscopy.

• Current affiliations: Durham University, J. Heyrovsky Institute of Physical Chemistry (Prague)
• Academic leadership: Head of Department, Royal Society of Chemistry Fellow

Research Interests focus on elucidating the electronic and nuclear dynamics governing photo- and electron-induced chemical changes. His group explores phenomena such as electron capture in molecular clouds, non-valence states in anions, and electron transport in biological systems, with applications spanning atmospheric science, interstellar chemistry, and biophysics.

Scientific Contributions include groundbreaking studies on

• Hydrated electrons at water/air interfaces
• Ultrafast dynamics of correlation-bound states
• Photodetachment of biologically relevant anions
• Excited-state relaxation in polyanions

Scientific Awards include the

• RSC Bourke-Liversidge Prize (2023)
• RSC Corday Morgan Prize (2021)
• European Research Council Starting Grant (2012-2017)
• EPSRC Advanced Research Fellow (2006-2011)
• JILA Visiting Fellow (2019)

Education & Grants feature a PhD from King’s College London (2003) and postdoctoral work at UC Berkeley (2003). He leads research funded by the ERC and EPSRC, focusing on electron-driven chemical processes and interfacial reactions.

Labs & Collaborations include the Verlet Research Group at Durham University and a senior scientist role at the J. Heyrovsky Institute of Physical Chemistry (2024-29). His work bridges experimental and computational approaches to molecular dynamics.