Prof. Dr Christoph Lienau, head of the research group of the same name at the Institute of Physics, has scored a success for the further development of the research field of "ultrafast nano-optics": The priority programme "Ultrafast Nano-Optics", which he co-initiated, will be funded by the German Research Foundation from next year. The programme will be coordinated by Prof. Martin Aeschlimann at the University of Kaiserslautern. "This year, our proposal was the only one from physics to be funded," comments Lienau on this success. The DFG's justification demonstrates the attractiveness of this new field of research: "Two promising and internationally recognised research areas are being brought together here for the first time: ultrashort pulse technology and nano-optics." With this new approach, nano-objects such as metal particles or optical media are to be investigated both theoretically and experimentally using very fast laser pulses. With an interdisciplinary focus, the programme links the fields of physics, chemistry, electrical engineering and biology. The knowledge gained is intended to clarify important aspects of basic research as well as form the basis for new applications, for example in quantum information processing and in biological and chemical sensor technology. In addition to Prof Aeschlimann and Lienau, the steering committee also includes four other internationally renowned scientists. "With the establishment of this programme, our working group has a good chance of sustainably establishing this new field of research in Oldenburg." Further information &nb