Our students have tackled a wide range of topics in computational physics, from coupled cluster studies and time development in quantum systems to molecular dynamics modeling. Each thesis reflects the group's commitment to advancing theoretical and computational methods for quantum mechanical and statistical mechanics systems.
Coupled Cluster Studies of Quantum Many-Body Systems
Explores coupled cluster methodology applied to strongly correlated quantum systems, with an emphasis on computational scaling and accuracy benchmarks against exact diagonalisation.
Time Development in Open Quantum Systems
Investigates numerical approaches to simulating time evolution in open quantum systems, comparing master-equation techniques with stochastic unraveling methods.
Molecular Dynamics Modeling of Porous Media Flow
Uses large-scale molecular dynamics simulations to study fluid transport through nanoporous materials, relevant to shale gas extraction and nanoscale hydrodynamics.
Quantum Dot Electronic Structure Calculations
Applies density functional theory and configuration interaction methods to model electronic states in semiconductor quantum dots, with analysis of confinement effects.
Statistical Mechanics of Polymer Networks
Develops coarse-grained models for cross-linked polymer gels, examining elasticity, swelling behaviour, and phase transitions using Monte Carlo techniques.
Resources for Thesis Writers
The group provides LaTeX packages and formatting guidelines aligned with the University of Oslo's requirements for master's theses. These resources help students produce consistently formatted, publication-ready documents.
- UiO Master's Thesis LaTeX Template — a structured template with preconfigured front matter, chapter layout, and bibliography support.
- Style and Citation Guidelines — recommendations for referencing, figure formatting, and code-listing presentation in computational physics theses.
- Cluster Access for Thesis Work — students may request access to the Smaug computing cluster for simulation-heavy thesis projects.
The theses produced within the group consistently reflect a deep engagement with the core challenges of computational physics, spanning both quantum mechanical and statistical mechanics domains. Students develop and apply advanced numerical methods—ranging from coupled cluster techniques for strongly correlated many-body systems to molecular dynamics simulations of dense matter and flowing liquids. Each project emphasizes rigorous methodological development alongside practical computational implementation, often requiring students to write efficient code that scales across high-performance computing clusters. The work frequently bridges theoretical insight with predictive simulation, preparing graduates to tackle problems across scales, from the quantum behavior of individual particles to the emergent properties of neutron stars and porous media. This thesis tradition has become a cornerstone of the group's educational mission.