Marius Gerlach

My research is focused on the small and reactive molecules Isocyanic acid (HNCO), Fulminic acid (HCNO) and Isothiocyanic acid. All three molecules have already been detected in interstellar species. Since they are composed of the atoms essential for organic life, they are compelling prebiotic intermediates required for the formation of important biomolecules. In the lab, we want to study the corresponding cations via Infrared and Microwave spectroscopy. This should provide new insights into the astrochemistry of these ions, but will also be of fundamental spectroscopy interest.