NSCPHD1273 Advanced topics in condensed matter theory

Volume 2013/2014
Content

In this course, we will cover selected topics in condensed matter theory at an advanced and in-depth level. Specific topics will vary from year to year. Typical selections will include:

  • Semiclassical methods
  • Time-dependent phenomena in quantum systems
  • Non-equilibrium quantum dynamics
  • Topological insulators
  • Topological superconductors
  • Fractional quantum Hall physics
  • Exotic magnetic and superconducting materials

The course will be highly interactive, with a mixture of lectures, problem sessions and discussions led by all participants.

Learning Outcome

Skills
In this course, the students will learn to think like researchers. This includes getting into a new topic by reading original research papers, learning to identify new questions, and distilling key physical principles at play in complex phenomena. In particular, each student will investigate a specific topic, carrying out detailed calculations and writing a final report on his/her understanding and findings.

Knowledge
At the end of the course, the student will know the fundamentals of the year’s selected topics and their connections to other areas of modern physics. The knowledge will be at a level such that the participants will be prepared to follow and conduct research in the given area.

Competences
After this course the students will be experienced in a method for starting research in a new area. They will be able to extract the needed information from existing literature and to think about new directions for the research area in question.

Literature

to be announced

Advanced quantum mechanics and condensed matter theory on the level taught in ”Condensed Matter Theory 1” at KU.
The course will be highly interactive, with a mixture of lectures, problem sessions and discussions led by all participants.
The course is also relevant for PhD students
  • Category
  • Hours
  • Lectures
  • 30
  • Preparation
  • 96
  • Project work
  • 20
  • Theory exercises
  • 60
  • Total
  • 206
Credit
7,5 ECTS
Type of assessment
Continuous assessment
The evaluation has three componets:

• Participation in discussion sessions and problem solving sessions (at least 80% attendance) (Mandatory)
• Completed problems sets (counting for up to 50 points)
• Final report (counting for up to 50 points)
Marking scale
passed/not passed
Censorship form
No external censorship
one internal examiner plus one internal censor.
Re-exam
If the 70 point level is not reached, the student can take a re-exam by writing a new final report, which must be defended in an oral exam.
Criteria for exam assesment

Passing score is defined as 70 points.