Electronic motions in focus

Meet our new doctoral candidate Dario Ventura!

Staying active is essential for Dario Ventura — a welcome counterbalance to the sedentary nature of his research work. Dario recently joined us from Italy and is now part of the theoretical division of the attosecond science group at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics. With a background in ultrafast physics from his master studies, he now continues to pursue this exciting field as a doctoral candidate. Learn more about him and his research in this interview!

What’s your main research focus for your PhD?

My research focuses on studying electronic motion triggered by ultrashort light pulses in matter, and on finding suitable approximations and methods to model it. I will start from nonlinear photoinjection – the absorption of multiple photons due to high-intensity exciting fields - with the aim of exploring its role in solids. Understanding and modeling nonlinear phenomena in strong-field light–matter interaction is crucial, since there is no single theoretical framework that can fully predict this physics from first principles.

What excites you most about this field?

Since my Master’s thesis, I have been fascinated by the physics behind these phenomena, which push the limits of controlling electron dynamics with light. Ultrafast many-body processes could open the way to new exciting applications, such as the next generation of highly efficient and fast processors.

What and where did you study?

I completed both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Engineering Physics at Politecnico di Milano. These studies gave me a solid foundation in engineering, chemistry, and physics. During my Master’s thesis, I worked at the Attosecond Research Center under Prof. Mauro Nisoli, where my interest in attosecond science began and motivated me to continue in this direction.

What attracted you to the IMPRS-APS program?

First, the international environment, which allows me to meet inspiring people from all over the world and build meaningful connections. I am also drawn by the excellent services, facilities, and work atmosphere. Finally, I appreciate the numerous company and research visits, which help broaden professional networks and knowledge.

What skills do you want to develop during your PhD?

I would like to strengthen my analytical skills and my ability to interpret complex data and perform advanced calculations. At the same time, I want to develop my scientific reasoning further and improve my writing and communication skills. In addition, developing strong problem-solving strategies will be essential for my work, just as it is for any other doctoral project. 

What’s a fun fact about you, a hobby or something else that you enjoy outside research?

During my free time, I like to keep myself busy with many different activities: sightseeing, going to the theatre and concerts, joining reading clubs, and above all, travelling and exploring new places. I definitely work out a lot to stay active, since my job is quite sedentary. I enjoy going to the gym, running, skiing, and trying out different sports. Finally, one of my favourite hobbies is cooking. I find it very relaxing, and I love preparing dishes to share with others. One of my specialities is leavened goods, especially desserts.

Thanks for the interview and welcome!