[MarkLFC]

Hi everyone,

I am considering applying for a PhD based upon the study of biological reactions using ultra-fast spectroscopy. Does anyone know of any good introductory textbooks to laser spectroscopy or femtochemistry? Preferably ones that do not require too much prior knowledge.

Thanks!

[wildfyr]

That is an awfully specific and advanced technique and area to be trying to learn about without "requiring to much prior knowledge".

[Corribus]

Assuming you've mastered undergrad level text like Atkins, you'll want a good textbook on Spectroscopy and one on molecular photophysics. I recommend Bernath, Spectra of Atoms and Molecules, and Turro, Molecular Photochemistry. If you're interested in fluorescence, Lackowicz is classic.

Spectroscopic principles are no different in fs time domain.  That's just a matter of optics for generating short pulses.