Simulation is one of the major theoretical tools we use for the understanding of complex physical systems. The group's research activities include the application of advanced computational methods to the study of molecular materials in both the solid and liquid state. Methods used include electronic structure methods such as density functional theory (DFT) and classical and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Additionally, there has in recent years been a shift away from purely equilibrium problems (calculating partition functions or Schrödinger energy levels) to working on systems that are out of equilibrium. Examples include soft matter systems such as colloids that are subjected to shearing; here exotic phenomena such as jamming and rheological chaos are seen. Likewise a fluid of mixed contents shows complex phenomena when subjected to a steady chemical potential gradient - this arises in drying, dissolution and mixing processes. In quantum-mechanical simulations of solid state phases the nonequilibrium dynamics of defects, such as grain boundaries, plays an increasing role, and first-principles molecular dynamics of molecules at surfaces addresses the kinetics of adsorption, desorption, and catalysis.
We have unusually strong links with in-house experimental programmes both in Soft Matter Physics and in Extreme Conditions Physics. We take every opportunity to confront our theories with the latest experimental data, and this makes for a very stimulating working environment for all concerned. Much of our work is funded, jointly with experiment, by a two-million pound ‘Programme Grant’ from the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). We are also participants in EPSRCs ‘RealityGrid’ e-Science Testbed Project (part of a national initiative in Grid Computing) and several other national projects. Note that the University of Edinburgh has led the UK in computational physics since that field was invented, and currently hosts the National eScience Centre (NeSC).
