1. Syllabus for Undergraduate Research in Computational Nanophysics (Physics 25-479-04)
Fall/Spring/Summer
Professor Office Phone Email
Research with Himadri Chakraborty CIE 1428 660.562.1715 himadri@nwmissouri.edu
Office Hours Spring2014: M(4-5pm), T(11am-noon, 3-4pm), W(3-5pm), Th(2-4pm)
Course Rationale:
Developing knowledge of Quantum Physics with nano applications
Learning computer programming in FORTRAN and, if possible, C++
Experience in working with extensive computer codes for simulations
Learning graphical presentation and visualization of data using
advanced software, and the art of scientific communications via
seminars and progress reports
Background Studies:
The quantum physics course will discuss the specific methods that apply directly to problems in
nanophysics and nanochemistry, and will explain some important processes involving
nanomaterials. Research-based hands-on problems will be addressed using computational
simulations and analysis.
The computational programming assignments that will be selected for the course will have
strong connections with the group’s research activities. The hands-on experience will provide
valuable exposure to scientific programming and an opportunity to learn Fortran90/95 or C++
languages.
Research Projects: Students will be involved after developing sufficient background
1) Spectroscopy of Nanoparticles, Fullerenes, Endohedral Fullerenes and Carbon Nanotubes.
2) Electronic Motions and Excitations in Nanostructured Surfaces by Ion‐Surface and Adsorbate‐
Surface Reactions
Tentative Semester Schedule:
Four weeks: Literature study and learning basic quantum mechanics
Four weeks: Learning computer programming in Fortran and related numerical methods
Four weeks: Computations and simulations to acquire data
Last two weeks: Preparing the progress report
From this stage computations can continue to the following semester(s), if the student is interested
Weekly Schedule:
Formal weekly meeting time with Dr. Chakraborty: One routine hour a week, plus any other time during
Dr. Chakraborty’s Office Hours.
Hours per week to be devoted to research: Four routine hours a week minimum.
Evaluation Methods:
1) Learning of background materials will be assessed by appropriate seminar presentations.
2) Learning of programming will be examined by homework assignments on the computer coding.
3) Computational efforts will be monitored and results will be checked for correctness and
consistency by regular meetings with the supervisor and/or other senior members in the group.
4) The student will be required to produce a final progress report.
5) New results may be presented in internal, regional or national conferences, or, if warranted, in the
form of peer-reviewed journal publications.