The Laser Plasma Lab at the University of California at San Diego studies directed laser acceleration in megatesla magnetic fields, the effects of a strong applied magnetic fields on relativistic laser-plasma interactions, and high energy radiation and particle beams generated using extreme magnetic fields using computation methods and tools on national supercomputers.

We welcome students and post-doctoral scholars interested to pursue research in our group.

Direct laser acceleration in Megatesla magnetic fields

This project examines analytically and using computer simulations a novel regime in which an unprecedented magnetic field, generated in a laser-irradiated solid density target, enhances acceleration of electrons and, as a result, enables emi

Effects of a strong applied magnetic field on relativistic laser-plasma interactions

The project explores how to utilize a quasi-static applied magnetic field to enhance energies of laser-accelerated electrons and to alter ion acceleration caused by collective behavior of these hot electrons. 

Directed high energy radiation and particle beams generated using extreme magnetic fields

The ultimate goal of the project is to develop fundamental understanding of how multiple laser beams of extreme intensity interact with matter in order to develop experiments that would access the most promising regimes for gamma ray and pai

Helical laser beams