Most visible matter in the universe exists as plasma. Extreme plasmas are also pervasive in the most exotic astrophysical objects, such as neutron stars, black holes, jets and AGNs. In the laboratory, extreme plasmas are present at the focus of high-power/intensity lasers or particle beams.
This project focuses on studying the fundamental physics of extreme plasmas, encompassing cutting-edge laser systems with maximum power, as well as unique laser-plasma interactions with specific polarisations. The physics involved in these scenarios is highly nonlinear and demands a comprehensive understanding of the 6D distribution of plasma particles.
The project will utilise the state-of-the-art particle-in-cell code OSIRIS for kinetic simulations in multiple dimensions, complemented by the additional physics relevant at extreme intensities. The PIC algorithm relies on first principles physics, minimizing approximations compared to other methods. Tier-0 HPC systems are thus crucial for modelling realistic extreme plasmas.
The objective is to investigate plasma dynamics with shaped distribution functions and their applications in laboratory astrophysics experiments, plasma light amplification, and extreme particle acceleration. Taming the plasma instabilities present in these processes is of critical importance in experimental design and the exploration/applications of these novel plasma regimes, and this project will address this exciting frontier.