260015 LP Lab-Course: Computational Quantum Mechanics (2024W)

Simulations of quantum-mechanical many-electron systems, with special focus on solid state physics and materials science.

Physical presence in the first lecture is required. If students are unable to participate, they need to contact the lecturer in advance.

The course is structured in two parts.
In the first part, lectures consist of brief theoretical introduction to physical properties and computational techniques, followed by hands-on sessions; during these practical sessions, students try to solve weekly assignments in groups (typically pairs).
In the second part of the course, students work on a final project on a topic of their preference (chosen in agreement with dedicated supervisors).

Simulations are performed in the density-functional theory framework, by using the Vienna ab initio software package (VASP).
Fundamental physical properties, such as the electronic band structure and density of states, effective forces acting on ions, vibrational frequencies, mechanical properties, thermodynamic properties, as well as magnetic properties are discussed and calculated.
Upon request, during the final project, students may also write programs in selected areas of computational science (Monte Carlo, molecular dynamics, Schrödinger equation solvers, Machine Learning).

Pre-requirements:
A laptop or desktop computer with internet connection is highly recommended.
Preliminary knowledge of Quantum Mechanics and Solid State Physics, and familiarity with Linux-shell scripting are beneficial but not required: basic concepts on these topics will be discussed during the theoretical sessions, and the main commands and scripts will be provided in the initial lectures.