Studies in Bright Electron Beams for Free Electron Lasers

This thesis investigates some key factors that threaten to degrade the beam quality in a type of particle accelerator known as a Free Electron Laser (FEL). In particular, focus was drawn to the electron beam emittance as it is of critical importance to the final x-ray spectral brightness produced by the Free Electron Laser. A technique was developed to suppress electron beam instabilities, which results in greatly improved Free Electron Laser performance, ultimately enabling more high-impact research at FEL facilities.