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Professor Thomas works in experimental theoretical plasma physics, with a research focus on the physics applications of high-power laser interactions with plasma. His studies delve into how heated lasers and highly non-equilibrium states of matter arise, exploring the complex behaviors and collective wave-particle interactions that necessitate full kinetic descriptions of particle distributions. The coupling of light with plasma leads to various instabilities and the formation of nonlinear waves. At the highest intensities, quantum electrodynamic effects become crucial in determining plasma dynamics. The applications of intensely laser-driven plasma range from advanced, miniature particle accelerators to generation of photon sources and inertial fusion energy. Professor Thomas is a member of the Center for Ultrafast Optical Science and the High Field Science group, utilizing HERCULES Lambda-cubed high-power laser systems to investigate the physics of relativistic plasma.
University of Michigan • Ann Arbor, MI
Professor in the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences focusing on experimental theoretical plasma physics.
Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science