Statistical mechanics is a major theoretical tool we use for the understanding of complex systems. The systems in question include many forms of condensed matter, although we also work on non-traditional areas such as ecosystem dynamics and the jamming of traffic. We have strong links with many of the other research areas within the Institute for Condensed Matter and Complex Systems, in particular, the Computational Materials Physics, Physics of Living Matter and Soft Matter Physics themes.
As in simulation, there has in recent years been a shift away from purely equilibrium problems to working on systems that are out of equilibrium. Here in Edinburgh we conduct a wide programme of fundamental work on model systems which addresses the many novel principles of nonequilibrium physics: for example, true phase transitions can arise even in one dimension. Our work also has direct relevance to a wide range of other disciplines, for example, biology, ecology and linguistics.
