Purpose <p>In surface science research, pulsed electron guns are required to generate electron beams with low current, small spot size, narrow pulse width, and high stability. However, conventional design approaches often rely on simplified lens analysis and basic particle tracking, which limit the optimization and precision of the system. This study aims to develop and validate a systematic design methodology for pulsed electron guns capable of delivering low-current, short-pulse beams for surface analysis applications.</p> Methods <p>A computational model of the designed pulsed electron gun was established and analyzed using three-dimensional Particle-In-Cell (PIC) simulations. Both transient and steady-state beam behaviors were simulated to characterize the electron trajectories, energy distributions, and switching dynamics. Additionally, the influence of electrostatic lens configurations on the beam distribution was systematically investigated.</p> Results <p>The simulation results provided insights into the beam shaping mechanisms and the coupling between the self-induced electric fields of the electron beam and the external electrostatic fields. The designed electron gun was fabricated and tested experimentally. Measurements were conducted for low-current, narrow-pulse electron beams, and the experimental outcomes were in good agreement with the simulation predictions.</p> Conclusion <p>The study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of using PIC-based simulation in the design and optimization of pulsed electron guns. The proposed method offers a robust framework for developing high-precision electron sources tailored for advanced surface analysis techniques.</p>