The aim of this workshop is to provide an overview of recent accomplishments in the field of magnetization dynamics and near future developments using pulsed x-ray sources.

Ultra-fast magnetization dynamics has evolved to one of the most fascinating subjects in condensed matter physics and it is today at the focus of world-wide research activities. In these, X-ray based techniques play a key role due to their ability of combining time resolution with sub 50 nm spatial resolution, using the powerful element specific X-ray magnetic dichroism effect as contrast mechanism. A time resolution of the order of 100 ps is readily available through the inherent time structure of synchrotron radiation storage rings. Their femto-slicing installations provide sub picosecond x-ray pulses. The limited intensity of these is overcome by X-ray Free Electron Lasers that provide X-ray flashes with unprecedented peak brightness and pulse shortness of down to a few fs.

Recent results obtained at these sources will be presented during the workshop and an outlook given on what will become possible with future pulsed X-ray sources. This discussion will be complemented by a series of talks presenting experimental highlights obtained with alternative approaches like all-optical laser techniques.