Modelling ultrafast experiments - the case of DMA nucleobases

DNA nucleobases absorb ultraviolet light. The electronic excitation, however, relaxes back to the ground state very quickly. Through this relaxation process, organisms avoid photodamage. Surprisingly the fundamental mechanism is not well understood. Recently, we have proposed a new model for this process. In my talk, I will use this as an example of how modelling quantum dynamics with fluctuations can help in the interpretation of ultrafast experiments. I will introduce two-dimensional spectroscopy as a tool to measure electronic dynamics and theoretical modelling as an aid in interpreting experiments. I will then discuss the specific example of the nucleobase adenine.