ECAMP 15

Recent advances in the control of the energy, quantum state and even shape of neutral molecules and molecular ions in the gas phase have opened up new possibilities for detailed studies of molecular interactions, collisions and chemical reactions. In the talk, we will present a range of recent results and new experimental developments which are all joined by the common theme of using controlled molecules for studies of collisional and chemical dynamics. First, we will discuss experimental techniques for the preparation of individual conformations of both neutral molecules and molecular ions and their use in the investigation of conformational effects in chemi-ionisation and ion-molecule reactions. Second, we will highlight how recently developed quantum-logic assisted protocols for molecular state readout can be employed for exploring the state-to-state dynamics of molecular collisions with high sensitivity on the single-molecule level. Third, we will present a new approach for the simultaneous (“hybrid”) trapping of cold neutral molecules and ions for studies of ion-molecule processes in the millikelvin regime. The talk will conclude with an outlook on future developments.