While this physics/econometrics research employs Monte Carlo simulations and classical molecular dynamics to advance research in economics and mathematical and theoretical physics, the goals of this education allocation are broader. Through exposure to visualization tools, parallel algorithms and core concepts of solid-state physics, interns also gain a foundation for research in high-performance computing, economics, and materials science and engineering.

 

Nature of education event: This is a year-long internship extension to foster undergraduate high-performance computing research beginning in the summer of 2017. While continued throughout the year, due to academic course schedules, the computational research will most intensely occur during the spring semester and summer months (January-June 2018).

 

Fields of study and student achievement of goals: The primary field of study is Monte Carlo simulation techniques for physics and econometrics. Molecular dynamics simulations and visualizations will also be developed for comparison with and validation of the Monte Carlo physics models. These will achieve additional goals of enhanced student skills in high performance computing and deepened knowledge of select topics of research in mathematical physics and econometrics.

 

Students will achieve these goals through a series of programmed exercises and milestones. For two continuing team members, this began with participation in the National Computational Science Institute/NCSA’s Blue Waters Petascale Institute in May and June 2014 and now culminates with this year of expanded research based on the initial 2014-15 conceptual and algorithmic code development.

 

Grade level and enrollment projections: This extended internship research is designed for full or partial participation by 3-12 students ranging from the level of appropriately prepared sophomore to post-graduates.