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402-0810-00L 8 Credits BSC , DR , MSC D-ITET , D-MATH , D-INFK , D-PHYS

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Computational Quantum Physics

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Mark Hannes Fischer

Special Students UZH must book the module PHY522 directly at UZH.

VVZ CR 1.6

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:54:23

Abstract

This course provides an introduction to simulation methods for quantum systems. Starting from the one-body problem, a special emphasis is on quantum many-body problems, where we cover both approximate methods (Hartree-Fock, density functional theory) and exact methods (exact diagonalization, matrix product states, and quantum Monte Carlo methods).

Objective

Through lectures and practical programming exercises, after this course: Students are able to describe the difficulties of quantum mechanical simulations. Students are able to explain the strengths and weaknesses of the methods covered. Students are able to select an appropriate method for a given problem. Students are able to implement basic versions of all algorithms discussed.

Resources

Lecture Notes

A script for this lecture will be provided.

Literature

A list of additional references will be provided in the script.

General Information

Language: English
Levels: BSC , DR , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 20 minutes

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Computational Quantum Physics together with University of Zurich More information at:https://studentservices.uzh.ch/uzh/anonym/vvz/index.html#/details/2020/004/SM/50993568	Tue 09:45-11:30 (HIL E 7)	2 h weekly
exercise	Computational Quantum Physics together with University of Zurich More information at:	Tue 13:45-15:30 (HCI J 7)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Computational Science and Engineering Bachelor
- For All Programme Regulations
  - Fields of Specialization
    - Physics
Computer Science Bachelor
- Minor Courses
Computational Science and Engineering Master
- Fields of Specialization
  - Physics (For the field of specialization `Physics' basic knowledge in quantum mechanics is required.)
Mathematics Master
- Application Area (Only necessary and eligible for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. One of the application areas specified must be selected for the category Application Area for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. At least 8 credits are required in the chosen application area.)
  - Theoretical Physics (In the Master's programme in Applied Mathematics 402-0204-00L Electrodynamics is eligible as a course unit in the application area Theoretical Physics, but only if 402-0224-00L Theoretical Physics wasn't or isn't recognised for credits (neither in the Bachelor's nor in the Master's programme). For the category assignment take contact with the Study Administration Office ( ) after having received the credits.)
Physics Master
- Electives
  - Electives: Physics and Mathematics
    - Selection: Theoretical Physics
Doctoral Department of Mathematics (More Information at: The list of courses (together with the allocated credit points) eligible for doctoral students is published each semester in the newsletter of the ZGSM. WARNING: Do not mistake ECTS credits for credit points for doctoral studies!)
- Graduate School (Official website of the Zurich Graduate School in Mathematics:)
Quantum Engineering Master
- Electives (This is a selection of courses particularly suitable for the MSc QE. In agreement with the tutor, students may choose other courses from the ETH course catalogue.)