Wolf Widdra

Prof. Wolf Widdra leads the Max Planck Fellow Group in experimental surface science at the Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, established in July 2010. His research focuses on the atomic and electronic structure of oxide surfaces and thin films, employing advanced laser-based photoemission techniques such as ARPES, 2PPE, PEEM, and DPE. His group pioneered high-repetition-rate pulsed laser systems and unique fiber-based laser systems for time-resolved spectroscopy. Key developments include MHz-repetition-rate light sources and ultrashort laser pulse pairs for studying electron-electron correlations and dynamic screening in complex materials. Materials research emphasizes transition metal oxides, including NiO(100) models and Perovskite surfaces, extending to 2D oxide quasicrystals. The group collaborates closely with the Collaborative Research Center 762 (Functional Oxide Interfaces).

Research activities integrate cutting-edge methodologies like scanning tunneling spectroscopy (STS) and higher-harmonic generation light sources to explore both occupied and unoccupied electronic states. The team’s innovations enable efficient time-resolved studies and address electronic behaviors beyond traditional one-electron models. Prof. Widdra’s work bridges fundamental physics with advanced material characterization, maintaining international research partnerships.