Samartzis Petros

Petros Samartzis is a Principal Researcher at IESL-FORTH, Greece. He earned his BSc (1996) and PhD (2003) in Chemistry from the University of Crete. Postdoctoral research included stints at UC Santa Barbara (2003-2007) and Caltech (2007-2009). His work focuses on laser-based chemical dynamics, spectroscopic detection, and instrument development. Key interests include molecular photodissociation mechanisms, spin-polarized atom production, and environmental/food analysis via optical methods.

Education:

• PhD in Physical Chemistry, University of Crete, 2003 (advisor: Theo Kitsopoulos)
• BSc in Chemistry, University of Crete, 1996

Research Interests:

His research integrates laser spectroscopy and advanced imaging techniques to study molecular dynamics. Specific areas include:

• Excited-state molecular dynamics and structural monitoring
• Spectroscopic detection of target molecules in complex mixtures
• Development of novel optical instruments (e.g., remote sensing devices)
• Photolytic production of spin-polarized atoms
• Ultrafast spectroscopy and time-resolved imaging

Publications Trends: Recent work emphasizes applications in environmental monitoring (atmospheric greenhouse gases), food authenticity (olive oil/milk analysis), and fundamental studies of photodissociation pathways in small molecules. Techniques like velocity map imaging and photoelectron circular dichroism dominate his experimental approach.

Instrumentation: Developed a prototype optical system for fuel adulteration detection and an autonomous laser device for atmospheric gas sensing. Active in advancing slice imaging and REMPI techniques.