SYLLABUS


(Rough Outline)


1. Introduction to time-dependent quantum theory

1.1 Recap of quatum theory using the harmonic oscillator as an example

1.2 time-dependent Schrodinger equation

1.3 Perturbation theory, time ordering

1.4 Alternative representations


2. Interaction of molecules with radiation

2.1 Introduction to annhilation/creation operators.

2.2 Details of the Hamiltonian and derivation of Fermi Golden Rule


3. Spectroscopy

3.1 Motivation for time-dependent formalism

3.2 Gaussian wavepackets

3.3 Propagation of general wavepackets

3.4 Many-dimensional problems: the time-dependent Hartree

formalism

3.5 Examples on electronic absorption and Raman spectroscopy

3.5.1 Lineshapes in harmonic environments

3.5.2 Anharmonic effects


4. Electron transfer reactions

4.1 Introduction to physical models

4.2 Semi-classical Marcus theory

4.3 Quantum formalisms for electron transfer in condensed phase:

path integral methods (spin-boson model)

4.4 Redfield theory of two-state systems

4.5 Electron transfer in multi-level systems: Quantum wires


(If we still have time ....)

5. Time-dependent surface scattering

5.1 Photodesorption of surface molecules

5.2 Scattering of atoms from surfaces


Projects


1. Using a Green's function code to study electron transfer in quantum wires

2. A checkerboard algorithm to study electron transport in star-shaped polymers

3. comparing Gaussian and exact propagation methods for predicting electronic absorption spectra

4. Write a simple diffusion Monte Carlo code to study simple quantum mechanical problems

5. Use a path-integral code to study the effects of the surrounding medium on electron transfer.

6. Examine the effects of excited state inter-system crossing on electronic spectra.

7. Examine the validity of the Time-dependent Hartree approximation in

8. Use a time-dependent Hartree method to study desorption of molecules on surfaces.


get back to where you once belonged .. (John (not the Baptist), 1965)