This course considers the computational modeling of solids, with a focus on transport, elasticity/plasticity, magnetism, and (out-of-)equilibrium phenomena. The first 8 weeks involve lectures and tutorials, with the remaining time devoted to group projects whose topic is derived from journal articles or student interest. Assessment is via a presentation and written report.

Independent study of selected topics in statistical thermodynamics (small projects with presentations)

The aim of the course is to provide a theoretical background to phase transformations and the constitution of microstructures. This includes the thermodynamic basis of phase equilibria, diffusional and difussionless transformations, properties of surfaces and interfaces, and the understanding of how through variations of processing conditions a material with specific properties can be tailored.