Prof. T.H.M. Rasing (Theo)

Professor Theo Rasing is an expert in the development of new optical techniques for use in research into materials at the molecular and nanometre scale and their manipulation, an interesting example being the switching (polarity reversal) of a magnet using an extremely short laser pulse. This fundamental discovery could result in an increase in the speed at which it is possible to write to the hard disk of a computer by a factor of 100,000.

Professor Rasing also works hard to increase the popularity of science amongst the general public and in schools. He often gives lectures on nanoscience and nanotechnology and was a candidate for the first annual Academic Prize in the Netherlands (Academische Jaarprijs) with his dancing atoms.

At the NanoLab in Nijmegen, Professor Rasing works on making developments in nanoscience accessible and available to the business community, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises.