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Teaching:
Physics
100: Introductory Physics
Physics 231H: Computational Physics
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Research
and Publications:
My
field of research is condensed matter theory. I develop
mathematical models which attempt to explain, at a microscopic
level, why different materials have different physical
properties. This field of physics dates back to the early 1900's,
and the earliest research focussed on understanding the
properties of simple metals and insulators. Currently, CMT is
probably the largest field of physics, including research in
nanotechnology, magnetism, semiconductors, polymers,
strongly-correlated electron materials, and many other topics. In
my case, I'm primarily interested in understanding the phenomenon
of High
Temperature Superconductivity and
I've recently gotten interested in the Mott-Anderson transition.
There's a nice short description of my field of research in the
summer
2008 HPCVL newsletter. Follow
this link
to learn more about my
research.
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Opportunities
for Undergraduates!
I'm
looking for undergraduate summer research assistants. Ideally,
you will have had an introduction to quantum mechanics, and
should know basic linear algebra (matrices, determinants,
eigenvalues). Programming experience is an asset, but can be
learned on the job. Make sure you apply for the summer NSERC
award. The deadline is usually in February. Note that you
don't have to be a Trent student to apply: students from
other Canadian universities are welcome to contact me.
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Graduate
Students Wanted!
I
am looking for graduate students who are interested in
computational and theoretical materials physics. Students
are normally supported financially throughout their degree. If
you have a background outside of physics, with strong math and
computer skills, then you can pursue an interdisciplinary M.Sc.
through Trent's Applications
of Modelling program.
I am also looking for students with a physics background who are
interested in earning an M.Sc. in Material
Science. This is an interdisciplinary program that emphasizes
the fundamental chemistry and physics of materials. My own
research is in high temperature superconductivity. Students who
complete this program with me may, if things go well, pursue a
Ph.D. in Physics with me through the Trent/Queen's
graduate program.
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Useful
Links:
Physics
Jobs: Most people with physics degrees don't wind up doing
physics for a living. What do they do? Find out about careers in
physics in Canada
(check
out the “Real Physicists” link) and
the U.S.A.
(Look at the "Career Guidance" Link). Where have my
own students gone? Law, finance, teaching, computers and
business are popular choices. Here
are some nice stories of people who have gone on to better
things.
Resources
for Condensed Matter Theory.
This website lists a large number of freely available
educational articles for condensed matter theory.
Here
is an introduction
to Linux.
If you choose the beginner's course, I recommend you start with
Lesson 4.
Notes
on LAPACK/SCALAPACK routines. Feedback welcome.
Thinking
about graduate school? Check out the Canadian Association of
Physicists list of graduate
research programs in Canada.
While I'm at it, let me promote our own graduate programs in
Modelling and
Materials
Science.
Tips
for giving a scientific presentation. I have found two very nice
documents: Giving
a Talk by C.
Susan Weiler at Whitman College, and
Tips
For Giving A Scientific Presentation by David
Vanden Bout at the University of Texas. Please,
I beg you, take them to heart!
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