Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2016

Physics Bachelor Information
Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2016)
First Year
» First Year Compulsory Courses
» GESS Science in Perspective
» Minor Courses
First Year Compulsory Courses
First Year Examination Block 1
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-1151-00LLinear Algebra IO7 credits4V + 2UM. Akveld
AbstractIntroduction to the theory of vector spaces for mathematicians and physicists: Basics, vector spaces, linear transformations, solutions of systems of equations and matrices, determinants, endomorphisms, eigenvalues and eigenvectors.
Objective- Mastering basic concepts of Linear Algebra
- Introduction to mathematical methods
Content- Basics
- Vectorspaces and linear maps
- Systems of linear equations and matrices
- Determinants
- Endomorphisms and eigenvalues
Literature- H. Schichl and R. Steinbauer: Einführung in das mathematische Arbeiten. Springer-Verlag 2012. Link: Link
- G. Fischer: Lineare Algebra. Springer-Verlag 2014. Link: Link
- K. Jänich: Lineare Algebra. Springer-Verlag 2004. Link: Link
- S. H. Friedberg, A. J. Insel and L. E. Spence: Linear Algebra. Pearson 2003. Link
- R. Pink: Lineare Algebra I und II. Lecture notes. Link: Link
402-1701-00LPhysics IO7 credits4V + 2UA. Wallraff
AbstractThis course gives a first introduction to Physics. The emphasis is on classical mechanics, together with an introduction to thermodynamics.
ObjectiveAcquire knowledge of the basic principles regarding the physics of classical mechanics and thermodynamics. Skills in solving physics problems.
252-0847-00LComputer Science Information O5 credits2V + 2UB. Gärtner
AbstractThis lecture is an introduction to programming based on the language C++. We cover fundamental types, control statements, functions, arrays, and classes. The concepts will be motivated and illustrated through algorithms and applications.
ObjectiveThe goal of this lecture is an algorithmically oriented introduction to programming.
ContentThis lecture is an introduction to programming based on the language C++. We cover fundamental types, control statements, functions, arrays, and classes. The concepts will be motivated and illustrated through algorithms and applications.
Lecture notesLecture notes in English and Handouts in German will be distributed electronically along with the course.
LiteratureAndrew Koenig and Barbara E. Moo: Accelerated C++, Addison-Wesley, 2000.

Stanley B. Lippman: C++ Primer, 3. Auflage, Addison-Wesley, 1998.

Bjarne Stroustrup: The C++ Programming Language, 3. Auflage, Addison-Wesley, 1997.

Doina Logofatu: Algorithmen und Problemlösungen mit C++, Vieweg, 2006.

Walter Savitch: Problem Solving with C++, Eighth Edition, Pearson, 2012
First Year Examination Block 2
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-1261-07LAnalysis IO10 credits6V + 3UM. Einsiedler
AbstractIntroduction to the differential and integral calculus in one real variable: fundaments of mathematical thinking, numbers, sequences, basic point set topology, continuity, differentiable functions, ordinary differential equations, Riemann integration.
ObjectiveThe ability to work with the basics of calculus in a mathematically rigorous way.
LiteratureK. Koenigsberger: Analysis I, Springer-Verlag
Link

R. Courant: Vorlesungen ueber Differential- und Integralrechnung.
Springer Verlag
Link

V. Zorich: Analysis I. Springer Verlag 2006
Link

Chr. Blatter: Analysis. Link

Struwe: Analysis I/II, siehe
Link

H. Heuser: Lehrbuch der Analysis. Teubner Verlag
W. Walter: Analysis 1. Springer Verlag
O. Forster: Analysis I. Vieweg Verlag

J.Appell: Analysis in Beispielen und Gegenbeispielen. Springer Verlag
Link

Schichl u. Steinbauer, Einführung in das mathematische Arbeiten
Link

Beutelspacher, Das ist o.B.d.A. trivial
Link
Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2010)
First Year
Course Units of the first year can be found in section Bachelor Studies (Programme Regulations 2016) - First Year.
Compulsory Courses
Second Year Compulsory Courses
Examination Block I
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-2303-00LComplex Analysis Information O6 credits3V + 2UR. Pandharipande
AbstractComplex functions of one variable, Cauchy-Riemann equations, Cauchy theorem and integral formula, singularities, residue theorem, index of closed curves, analytic continuation, special functions, conformal mappings, Riemann mapping theorem.
ObjectiveWorking Knowledge with functions of one complex variables; in particular applications of the residue theorem
LiteratureTh. Gamelin: Complex Analysis. Springer 2001

E. Titchmarsh: The Theory of Functions. Oxford University Press

D. Salamon: "Funktionentheorie". Birkhauser, 2011. (In German)

L. Ahlfors: "Complex analysis. An introduction to the theory of analytic functions of one complex variable." International Series in Pure and Applied Mathematics. McGraw-Hill Book Co.

B. Palka: "An introduction to complex function theory."
Undergraduate Texts in Mathematics. Springer-Verlag, 1991.

R.Remmert: Theory of Complex Functions. Springer Verlag
401-2333-00LMethods of Mathematical Physics IO6 credits3V + 2UC. A. Keller
AbstractFourier series. Linear partial differential equations of mathematical physics. Fourier transform. Special functions and eigenfunction expansions. Distributions. Selected problems from quantum mechanics.
Objective
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Einschreibung in die Übungsgruppen erfolgt online. Melden Sie sich im Laufe der ersten Semesterwoche unter echo.ethz.ch mit Ihrem ETH Account an. Der Übungsbetrieb beginnt in der zweiten Semesterwoche.
402-2883-00LPhysics IIIO7 credits4V + 2UJ. Home
AbstractIntroductory course on quantum and atomic physics including optics and statistical physics.
ObjectiveA basic introduction to quantum and atomic physics, including basics of optics and equilibrium statistical physics. The course will focus on the relation of these topics to experimental methods and observations.
ContentEvidence for Quantum Mechanics: atoms, photons, photo-electric effect, Rutherford scattering, Compton scattering, de-Broglie waves.

Quantum mechanics: wavefunctions, operators, Schrodinger's equation, infinite and finite square well potentials, harmonic oscillator, hydrogen atoms, spin.

Atomic structure: Perturbation to basic structure, including Zeeman effect, spin-orbit coupling, many-electron atoms. X-ray spectra, optical selection rules, emission and absorption of radiation, including lasers.

Optics: Fermat's principle, lenses, imaging systems, diffraction, interference, relation between geometrical and wave descriptions, interferometers, spectrometers.

Statistical mechanics: probability distributions, micro and macrostates, Boltzmann distribution, ensembles, equipartition theorem, blackbody spectrum, including Planck distribution
Lecture notesLecture notes will be provided electronically during the course.
LiteratureQuantum mechanics/Atomic physics/Molecules: "The Physics of Atoms and Quanta", H. Hakan and H. C. Wolf, ISBN 978-3-642-05871-4

Optics: "Optics", E. Hecht, ISBN 0-321-18878-0

Statistical mechanics: "Statistical Physics", F. Mandl 0-471-91532-7
Examination Block II
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-2203-01LClassical Mechanics Information O7 credits4V + 2UG. M. Graf
AbstractA conceptual introduction to theoretical physics: Newtonian mechanics, central force problem, oscillations, Lagrangian mechanics, symmetries and conservation laws, spinning top, relativistic space-time structure, particles in an electromagnetic field, Hamiltonian mechanics, canonical transformations, integrable systems, Hamilton-Jacobi equation.
Objective
Third Year Compulsory Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0205-00LQuantum Mechanics I Information O10 credits3V + 2UT. K. Gehrmann
AbstractIntroduction to non-relativistic single-particle quantum mechanics. In particular, the basic concepts of quantum mechanics, such as the quantisation of classical systems, wave functions and the description of observables as operators on a Hilbert space, and the formulation of symmetries will be discussed. Basic phenomena will be analysed and illustrated by generic examples.
ObjectiveIntroduction to single-particle quantum mechanics. Familiarity with basic ideas and concepts (quantisation, operator formalism, symmetries, perturbation theory) and generic examples and applications (bound states, tunneling, scattering states, in one- and three-dimensional settings). Ability to solve simple problems.
ContentKeywords: Schrödinger equation, basic formalism of quantum mechanics (states, operators, commutators, measuring process), symmetries (translations, rotations), quantum mechanics in one dimension, spherically symmetric problems in three dimensions, scattering theory, perturbation theory, variational techniques, spin, addition of angular momenta, relation between QM and classical physics.
LiteratureF. Schwabl: Quantum mechanics
J.J. Sakurai: Modern Quantum Mechanics
C. Cohen-Tannoudji: Quantum mechanics I
Core Courses
Core Courses in Experimental Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0263-00LAstrophysics I Information W10 credits3V + 2UA. Refregier
AbstractThis introductory course will develop basic concepts in astrophysics as applied to the understanding of the physics of planets, stars, galaxies, and the Universe.
ObjectiveThe course provides an overview of fundamental concepts and physical processes in astrophysics with the dual goals of: i) illustrating physical principles through a variety of astrophysical applications; and ii) providing an overview of research topics in astrophysics.
402-0255-00LIntroduction to Solid State PhysicsW10 credits3V + 2UK. Ensslin
AbstractThe course provides an introduction to solid state physics, covering several topics that are later discussed in more detail in other more specialized lectures. The central topics are: solids and their lattice structures; interatomic bindings; lattice dynamics, electronic properties of insulators, metals, semiconductors, transport properties, magnetism, superconductivity.
ObjectiveIntroduction to Solid State Physics.
ContentThe course provides an introduction to solid state physics, covering several topics that are later discussed in more detail in other more specialized lectures. The central topics are: solids and their lattice structures; interatomic bindings; lattice dynamics, thermal properties of insulators; metals (classical and quantum mechanical description of electronic states, thermal and transport properties of metals); semiconductors (bandstructure and n/p-type doping); magnetism, superconductivity.
Lecture notesA Manuscript is distributed.
LiteratureIbach & Lüth, Festkörperphysik
C. Kittel, Festkörperphysik
Ashcroft & Mermin, Festkörperphysik
W. Känzig, Kondensierte Materie
Prerequisites / NoticeVoraussetzungen: Physik I, II, III wünschenswert
Core Courses in Theoretical Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0205-00LQuantum Mechanics I Information W10 credits3V + 2UT. K. Gehrmann
AbstractIntroduction to non-relativistic single-particle quantum mechanics. In particular, the basic concepts of quantum mechanics, such as the quantisation of classical systems, wave functions and the description of observables as operators on a Hilbert space, and the formulation of symmetries will be discussed. Basic phenomena will be analysed and illustrated by generic examples.
ObjectiveIntroduction to single-particle quantum mechanics. Familiarity with basic ideas and concepts (quantisation, operator formalism, symmetries, perturbation theory) and generic examples and applications (bound states, tunneling, scattering states, in one- and three-dimensional settings). Ability to solve simple problems.
ContentKeywords: Schrödinger equation, basic formalism of quantum mechanics (states, operators, commutators, measuring process), symmetries (translations, rotations), quantum mechanics in one dimension, spherically symmetric problems in three dimensions, scattering theory, perturbation theory, variational techniques, spin, addition of angular momenta, relation between QM and classical physics.
LiteratureF. Schwabl: Quantum mechanics
J.J. Sakurai: Modern Quantum Mechanics
C. Cohen-Tannoudji: Quantum mechanics I
Practical Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0000-01LPhysics Lab I Information O4 credits1V + 4PA. Biland, M. Doebeli, M. Kroner, S. P. Quanz
AbstractIntroductory lab course in experimental physics with accompanying lecture
ObjectiveÜbergeordnetes Thema des Praktikums und der Vorlesung ist die Auseinandersetzung mit den grundlegenden Herausforderungen eines physikalischen Experimentes. Am Beispiel einfacher experimenteller Aufbauten und Aufgaben stehen vor allem folgende Gesichtspunkte im Vordergrund:

- Motivation und Herangehensweise in der Experimentalphysik
- Praktischer Aufbau von Experimenten und grundlegende Kenntnisse von Messmethoden und Instrumenten
- Einführung in relevante statistische Methoden der Datenauswertung und Fehleranalyse
- Kritische Beurteilung und Interpretation der Beobachtungen und Ergebnisse
- Darstellen und Kommunizieren der Ergebnisse mit Graphiken und Text
- Ethische Aspekte der experimentellen Forschung und wissenschaftlicher Kommunikation
ContentVersuche zu Themen aus den Bereichen der Mechanik, Optik, Wärme, Elektrizität und Kernphysik mit begleitender Vorlesung zur Vertiefung des Verständnisses der Datenanalyse und Interpretation
Lecture notesAnleitung zum Physikalischen Praktikum; Vorlesungsskript
Prerequisites / NoticeAus einer Liste von 33 Versuchen müssen 9 Versuche in Zweiergruppen durchgeführt werden.

Am ersten Termin findet nur eine dreistündige Einführungsveranstaltung im Hörsaal statt und es werden noch keine Experimente durchgeführt.
402-0241-00LAdvanced Physics Laboratory I Information Restricted registration - show details
IMPORTANT: You may not enrol repeatedly in the course of the Bachelor programme.
O9 credits18PC. Grab, T. M. Ihn
AbstractThis laboratory course provides basic training of experimental skills. These are experimental design, implementation, measurement, data analysis and interpretation, as well as error analysis. Written manuals for the individual experiments are available.
Objective
402-0240-00LAdvanced Physics Laboratory II Information Restricted registration - show details
Prerequiste: "Advanced Physics Laboratory I" completed. Before enroling in "Advanced Physics Laboratory II", please enrol in "Advanced Physics Laboratory I".

Enrol at most once in the course of the Bachelor programme!
W9 credits18PC. Grab, T. M. Ihn
AbstractThis laboratory course provides basic experimental skill training for performing physics experiments, including: Implementation of physics experiments using an instruction manual. Planning, designing, realizing, analyzing, and interpreting experiments. Estimating measurement precision.
ObjectiveStudents should learn how to perform a bit more complex experiments, analyze the data and interpret the results.
Proseminars, Experimental and Theoretical Semester Papers
To organise a semester project take contact with one of the instructors.

Not all lecturers are directly eligible in myStudies if "Professors" is the required type of lecturers. In such cases please take contact with the Study Administration (Link).
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0210-96LProseminar Theoretical Physics: Solitons and Instantons in Condensed Matter Information Restricted registration - show details
Number of participants limited to 24.
W9 credits4SV. Geshkenbein
AbstractA guided self-study of original papers and of advanced textbooks in theoretical physics. Within the general topic, determined each semester, participants give a presentation on a particular subject and deliver a written report.
Objective
402-0217-BSLTheoretical Semester Project in a Group of the Physics Department Restricted registration - show details
Supervisors: C. Anastasiou, N. Beisert, G. Blatter, P. De Forcrand, M. Gaberdiel, A. Gehrmann-De Ridder, V. Geshkenbein, G. M. Graf, S. Huber, A. Lazopoulos, R. Renner, T. C. Schulthess, M. Sigrist, M. Troyer, O. Zilberberg
W9 credits18ASupervisors
AbstractThis course unit is an alternative if no suitable "Proseminar Theoretical Physics" is available of if the proseminar is already overbooked.
Objective
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Leistungskontrolle erfolgt aufgrund eines oder mehrerer schriftlicher Berichte bzw. einer schriftlichen Arbeit. Vorträge können ein zusätzlicher Bestandteil der Leistungskontrolle sein.
402-0215-BSLExperimental Semester Project in a Group of the Physics Department Information Restricted registration - show details W9 credits18AProfessors
AbstractThe aim of the project is to give the student experience in working in a research environment, carrying out physics experiments, analysing and interpreting the resulting data.
Objective
Prerequisites / NoticeDie Leistungskontrolle erfolgt aufgrund eines oder mehrerer schriftlicher Berichte bzw. einer schriftlichen Arbeit.
402-0510-BSLAdvanced Solid State Physics Experiments Restricted registration - show details
Supervisors for this experimental semester paper:
Prof. Christian Degen
Prof. Leonardo Degiorgi
Prof. Klaus Ensslin
Prof. Thomas Ihn
Prof. Joël Mesot
Prof. Danilo Pescia
Prof. Andreas Vaterlaus
Prof. Andreas Wallraff
Prof. Werner Wegscheider
Prof. Andrey Zheludev
W9 credits18PSupervisors
AbstractExperiments in condensed matter physics. The work includes the planning, build-up, data taking and analysis, and interpretation of the experimental results.
ObjectiveZiel ist das Entwickeln von Fähigkeiten, moderne Experimente in der Festkörperphysik durchzuführen. Dazu dienen experimentelle Arbeiten auf dem Gebiet der Festkörperphysik, meist in enger Zusammenarbeit mit laufenden Forschungsaktivitäten in den Forschungsgruppen.
ContentDurchführung von Experimenten aus dem Gebiet der Festkörperphysik. Planung, Aufbau, Durchführung, Auswertung und Interpretation der Experimente.
Lecture notesn/a
Prerequisites / NoticeArbeiten in einer Forschungsgruppe sind besonders gut geeignet, die Studierenden mit aktuellen Forschungsthemen und mit moderner Instrumentierung bekannt zu machen.
402-0400-BSLAdvanced Quantum Electronics Experiments Restricted registration - show details
Advisors for this experimental semester paper:
Prof. Tilman Esslinger
Prof. Jérôme Faist
Prof. Rachel Grange
Prof. Jonathan Home
Prof. Atac Imamoglu
Prof. Steven Johnson
Prof. Ursula Keller
W9 credits18PSupervisors
AbstractImplementation of experiments in quantum electronics. Planning, design, realisation, evaluation, and interpretation of the experiments.
Objective
ContentDurchführung von Versuchen im Gebiet der Optik, z.B. Holographie und Laserphysik. Planung, Aufbau, Durchführung, Auswertung und Interpretation der Experimente.
402-0719-BSLParticle Physics at PSI (Paul Scherrer Institute) Restricted registration - show details W9 credits18PC. Grab
AbstractDuring semester breaks 6-12 students stay for 3 weeks at PSI and participate in a hands-on course on experimental particle physics. A small real experiment is performed in common, including apparatus design, construction, running and data analysis. The course includes some lectures, but the focus lies on the practical aspects of experimenting.
ObjectiveStudents learn all the different steps it takes to perform a complete particle physics experiment in a small team. They acquire skills to do this themselves in the team, including design, construction, data taking and data analysis.
402-0717-BSLParticle Physics at CERN Restricted registration - show details W9 credits18PF. Nessi-Tedaldi, W. Lustermann
AbstractDuring the semester break participating students stay for 4 weeks at CERN and perform experimental work relevant to our particle physics projects. Dates to be agreed upon.
ObjectiveStudents learn, by doing, the needed skills to perform a small particle physics experiment: setup, problem solving, data taking, analysis, interpretation and presentation in a written report of publication quality.
ContentDetailed information in: Link
Prerequisites / NoticeLanguage of instruction: English or German
402-0340-BSLMedical Physics Restricted registration - show details W9 credits18PA. J. Lomax, K. P. Prüssmann, M. Rudin
AbstractIn agreement with the lecturers a semester paper in the context of the topics discussed in the lectures can be written.
Objective
402-0240-00LAdvanced Physics Laboratory II Information Restricted registration - show details
Prerequiste: "Advanced Physics Laboratory I" completed. Before enroling in "Advanced Physics Laboratory II", please enrol in "Advanced Physics Laboratory I".

Enrol at most once in the course of the Bachelor programme!
W9 credits18PC. Grab, T. M. Ihn
AbstractThis laboratory course provides basic experimental skill training for performing physics experiments, including: Implementation of physics experiments using an instruction manual. Planning, designing, realizing, analyzing, and interpreting experiments. Estimating measurement precision.
ObjectiveStudents should learn how to perform a bit more complex experiments, analyze the data and interpret the results.
GESS Science in Perspective
GESS Science in Perspective
» see Science in Perspective: Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Capability
» Recommended Science in Perspective (Type B) for D-PHYS.
Language Courses
» see Science in Perspective: Language Courses ETH/UZH
Additional Courses, Seminars and Colloquia
First or Second Year Additional Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0351-00LAstronomyZ2 credits2VH. M. Schmid, W. Schmutz
AbstractAn overview on the important topics in modern astronomy: planets, sun, stars, milky way, galaxies, and cosmology
ObjectiveThis lecture gives a general introduction to main topics in modern astronomy. The lecture provide a basis for the more advanced lectures in astrophysics.
ContentPlaneten, Sonne, Sterne, Milchstrasse, Galaxien und Kosmologie.
Lecture notesKopien der Präsentationen werde zur Verfügung gestellt.
LiteratureAstronomie. Harry Nussbaumer, Hans Martin Schmid
vdf Vorlesungsskripte (8. Auflage)

Der Neue Kosmos. A. Unsöld, B. Baschek, Springer
401-1511-00LGeometryZ3 credits2V + 1UT. Ilmanen
AbstractWe will study the topology and geometry of 2 and 3 dimensional spaces (manifolds) from an informal point of view.
Objective-what is it like to live in a non-Euclidean space (for example, in a surface)?
-orientation, genus, curvature
-classification of closed orientable surfaces
-spherical, Euclidean, and hyperbolic geometry
-3-manifolds a la Thurston
LiteratureJeffrey R. Weeks. The Shape of Space.

Edwin A. Abbott. Flatland. 1884.
Additional Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0247-00LElectronics for Physicists I (Analogue)Z4 credits2V + 2PR. Horisberger
AbstractPassive elts, linear complex networks, transmission lines, simulation of analog circuits, semiconductor elts: diodes, bipolar and fieldeffect transistors, basic amplifier circuits, small signal analysis, differential amplifiers, noise in analog circuits, operational amplifiers, OTAs, gyrator circuits, feedback and stability in amplifiers, oscillators, ADCs and DACs, introduction in CMOS technology
Objective
ContentPassive elements, linear complex networks, transmission lines, simulation of analog circuits (SPICE), semiconductor elements: diodes, bipolar and fieldeffect transistors, basic amplifier circuits, small signal analysis, differential amplifiers, noise in analog circuits, operational amplifiers, OTA's, gyrator circuits, feedback and stability in amplifiers, oscillators, ADC's and DAC's, introduction in CMOS technology.
Practical excercises in small groups to the above themes complement the lectures.
Prerequisites / NoticeEmpfohlene Vorlesung für Studierende der Experimentalphysik. Keine Vorkenntnisse in Elektronik vorausgesetzt.
Additional Courses (from Second Year Mathematics Bachelor)
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-2003-00LAlgebra IZ7 credits4V + 2UL. Halbeisen
AbstractIntroduction and development of some basic algebraic structures - groups, rings, fields.
ObjectiveIntroduction to basic notions and results of group, ring and field
theory.
ContentGroup Theory: basic notions and examples of groups; Subgroups, Quotient groups and Homomorphisms, Sylow Theorems, Group actions and applications

Ring Theory: basic notions and examples of rings; Ring Homomorphisms, ideals and quotient rings, applications

Field Theory: basic notions and examples of fields; finite fields, applications

At the end we prove Mordell's Theorem for special elliptic curves.
LiteratureJ.F. Humphreys: A Course in Group Theory (Oxford University Press)
G. Smith and O. Tabachnikova: Topics in Group Theory (Springer-Verlag)
M. Artin: Algebra (Birkhaeuser Verlag)
R. Lidl and H. Niederreiter: Introduction to Finite Fields and their Applications (Cambridge University Press)
B.L. van der Waerden: Algebra I & II (Springer Verlag)
Seminars and Colloquia
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0101-00LThe Zurich Physics Colloquium Information E-0 credits1KR. Renner, G. Aeppli, C. Anastasiou, N. Beisert, G. Blatter, S. Cantalupo, M. Carollo, C. Degen, G. Dissertori, K. Ensslin, T. Esslinger, J. Faist, M. Gaberdiel, T. K. Gehrmann, G. M. Graf, R. Grange, J. Home, S. Huber, A. Imamoglu, P. Jetzer, S. Johnson, U. Keller, K. S. Kirch, S. Lilly, L. M. Mayer, J. Mesot, B. Moore, D. Pescia, A. Refregier, A. Rubbia, K. Schawinski, T. C. Schulthess, M. Sigrist, M. Troyer, A. Vaterlaus, R. Wallny, A. Wallraff, W. Wegscheider, A. Zheludev, O. Zilberberg
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
Prerequisites / NoticeOccasionally, talks may be delivered in German.
402-0800-00LThe Zurich Theoretical Physics Colloquium Information E-0 credits1KS. Huber, C. Anastasiou, N. Beisert, G. Blatter, M. Gaberdiel, T. K. Gehrmann, G. M. Graf, P. Jetzer, L. M. Mayer, B. Moore, R. Renner, T. C. Schulthess, M. Sigrist, M. Troyer, O. Zilberberg, University lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
ObjectiveThe Zurich Theoretical Physics Colloquium is jointly organized by the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich. Its mission is to bring both students and faculty with diverse interests in theoretical physics together. Leading experts explain the basic questions in their field of research and communicate the fascination for their work.
401-5330-00LTalks in Mathematical Physics Information E-0 credits1KA. Cattaneo, G. Felder, M. Gaberdiel, G. M. Graf, H. Knörrer, T. H. Willwacher, University lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
402-0501-00LSolid State Physics Information E-0 credits1SA. Zheludev, G. Blatter, C. Degen, K. Ensslin, D. Pescia, M. Sigrist, A. Wallraff
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
402-0551-00LLaser SeminarE-0 credits1ST. Esslinger, J. Faist, J. Home, A. Imamoglu, U. Keller, F. Merkt, H. J. Wörner
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
402-0600-00LNuclear and Particle Physics with ApplicationsE-0 credits2SA. Rubbia, G. Dissertori, C. Grab, K. S. Kirch, R. Wallny
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
402-0893-00LParticle Physics Seminar Information E-0 credits1ST. K. Gehrmann
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
Prerequisites / NoticeOccasionally, talks may be delivered in German.
402-0700-00LSeminar in Elementary Particle Physics Information E-0 credits1SM. Spira
AbstractResearch colloquium
ObjectiveStay informed about current research results in elementary particle physics.
402-0369-00LResearch Colloquium in Astrophysics Information E-0 credits1KS. Cantalupo, M. Carollo, S. Lilly, A. Refregier, K. Schawinski, H. M. Schmid
AbstractDuring the semester there is a colloquium every week. In general, colloquia are 20 minutes plus discussion and are given by local researchers. They inform the other members of the Institute of Astronomy about their current work, results, problems and plans. Guests are always welcome.
ObjectivePh.D. students are expected to give a first research colloquium within their first years of their graduate time, another colloquium in their third year, and their doctoral exam talk before or after the exam. Other members of the institute are also invited to give talks. The goals are:
- keep other members of the institute oriented on current research
- test new ideas within the institute before going outside
- train students to give scientific talks
402-0356-00LAstrophysics Seminar Information E-0 credits2SS. Cantalupo, M. Carollo, S. Lilly, A. Refregier, K. Schawinski, H. M. Schmid
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
402-0746-00LSeminar: Particle and AstrophysicsE-0 credits1SC. Grab, University lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
ContentIn Seminarvorträgen werden aktuelle Fragestellungen aus der Teilchenphysik vom theoretischen und experimentellen Standpunkt aus diskutiert. Besonders wichtig erscheint uns der Bezug zu den eigenen Forschungsmöglichkeiten am PSI, CERN und DESY.
402-0530-00LMesoscopic SystemsE-0 credits1ST. M. Ihn
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
227-0980-00LSeminar on Biomedical Magnetic Resonance Information E-0 credits2KK. P. Prüssmann, S. Kozerke, M. Rudin
AbstractActuel developments and problems of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
ObjectiveGetting insight to advanced topics in Magnetic Resonance Imaging
227-1043-00LNeuroinformatics - Colloquia (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH.
UZH Module Code: INI701

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
Link
E-0 credits1KS.‑C. Liu, R. Hahnloser, V. Mante, K. A. Martin
AbstractThe colloquium in Neuroinformatics is a series of lectures given by invited experts. The lecture topics reflect the current themes in neurobiology and neuromorphic engineering that are relevant for our Institute.
ObjectiveThe goal of these talks is to provide insight into recent research results. The talks are not meant for the general public, but really aimed at specialists in the field.
ContentThe topics depend heavily on the invited speakers, and thus change from week to week.
All topics concern neural computation and their implementation in biological or artificial systems.
227-1044-00LAuditory Informatics (University of Zurich) Information
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH.
UZH Module Code: INI413

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
Link
E-2 credits1SR. Stoop
AbstractInvited talks on current research from the following areas: Auditory information processing, auditory sensors (biological and electrical), coding of information, perception, scene-segmentation.
ObjectiveExchange with researchers in the domain of auditory informatics. Preparing and giving a presentation on a suitable topic in front of a scientific audience.
ContentThe semester program is available under:
Link
Prerequisites / NoticeOn request the "Lehrsprache" may be changed to German.
402-0396-00LRecent Research Highlights in Astrophysics (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH.
UZH Module Code: AST006

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
Link
E-0 credits1SUniversity lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Objective
Selection of Higher Semester Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0811-00LProgramming Techniques for Scientific Simulations IW5 credits4GM. Troyer
AbstractThis lecture provides an overview of programming techniques for scientific simulations. The focus is on advances C++ programming techniques and scientific software libraries. Based on an overview over the hardware components of PCs and supercomputer, optimization methods for scientific simulation codes are explained.
Objective
402-0713-00LAstro-Particle Physics I Information W6 credits2V + 1UA. Biland
AbstractThis lecture gives an overview of the present research in the field of Astro-Particle Physics, including the different experimental techniques. In the first semester, main topics are the charged cosmic rays including the antimatter problem. The second semester focuses on the neutral components of the cosmic rays as well as on some aspects of Dark Matter.
ObjectiveSuccessful students know:
- experimental methods to measure cosmic ray particles over full energy range
- current knowledge about the composition of cosmic ray
- possible cosmic acceleration mechanisms
- correlation between astronomical object classes and cosmic accelerators
- information about our galaxy and cosmology gained from observations of cosmic ray
ContentFirst semester (Astro-Particle Physics I):
- definition of 'Astro-Particle Physics'
- important historical experiments
- chemical composition of the cosmic rays
- direct observations of cosmic rays
- indirect observations of cosmic rays
- 'extended air showers' and 'cosmic muons'
- 'knee' and 'ankle' in the energy spectrum
- the 'anti-matter problem' and the Big Bang
- 'cosmic accelerators'
Lecture notesSee lecture home page: Link
LiteratureSee lecture home page: Link
402-0737-00LEnergy and Environment in the 21st Century (Part I)W6 credits2V + 1UM. Dittmar
AbstractThe energy and related environmental problems, the physics principles of using energy and the various real and hypothetical options are discussed from a physicist point of view. The lecture is intended for students of all ages with an interest in a rational approach to the energy problem of the 21st century.
ObjectiveScientists and espially physicists are often confronted with questions
related to the problems of energy and the environment.
The lecture tries to address the physical principles of todays and tomorrow
energy use and the resulting global consequences for the world climate.

The lecture is for students which are interested
participate in a rational and responsible debatte about the
energyproblem of the 21. century.
ContentIntroduction: energy types, energy carriers, energy density
and energy usage. How much energy does a human needs/uses?

Energy conservation and the first and second law of thermodynamics

Fossile fuels (our stored energy resources) and their use.

Burning fossile fuels and the physics of the greenhouse effect.

physics basics of nuclear fission and fusion energy

controlled nuclear fission energy today, the different types of
nuclear power plants, uranium requirements and resources,
natural and artificial radioactivity and the related waste problems
from the nuclear fuel cycle.

Nuclear reactor accidents and the consequences,
a comparison with risks from other energy using methods.

The problems with nuclear fusion and the ITER project.

Nuclear fusion and fission: ``exotic'' ideas.

Hydrogen as an energy carrier: ideas and limits of a
hydrogen economy.

new clean renewable energy sources and their physical limits
(wind, solar, geothermal etc)

Energy perspectives for the next 100 years and some
final remarks
Lecture notesmany more details (in english and german) here:

Link
LiteratureDie Energiefrage - Bedarf und Potentiale, Nutzung, Risiken und Kosten:
Klaus Heinloth, 2003, VIEWEG ISBN: 3528131063;

Environmental Physics: Boeker and Egbert New York Wiley 1999
Prerequisites / NoticeScience promised us truth, or at least a knowledge
of such relations as our intelligence can seize:
it never promised us peace or happiness
Gustave Le Bon

Physicists learned to realize that whether they like a theory or
they don't like a theory is not the essential question.
Rather, it's whether or not the theory gives predictions that agree with experiment.
Richard Feynman, 1985
402-0461-00LQuantum Information Theory Information W8 credits3V + 1UR. Renner
AbstractThe goal of this course is to introduce the foundations of quantum information theory. It starts with a brief introduction to the mathematical theory of information and then discusses the basic information-theoretic aspects of quantum mechanics. Further topics include applications such as quantum cryptography and quantum computing.
ObjectiveThe course gives an insight into the notion of information and its relevance to physics and, in particular, quantum mechanics. It also serves as a preparation for further courses in the area of quantum information sciences.
402-0580-00LSuperconductivityW6 credits2V + 1UM. Sigrist
AbstractSuperconductivity: thermodynamics, London and Pippard theory; Ginzburg-Landau theory: spontaneous symmetry breaking, flux quantization, type I and II superconductors; microscopic BCS theory: electron-phonon mechanism, Cooper pairing, quasiparticle spectrum and tunneling, Josephson effect, superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUID), brief introduction to unconventional superconductivity.
ObjectiveIntroduction to the most important concepts of superconductivity both on phenomenological and microscopic level, including experimental and theoretical aspects.
ContentThis lecture course provides an introduction to superconductivity, covering both experimental as well as theoretical aspects. The following topics are covered:
Basic phenomena of superconductivity: thermodynamics, electrodynamics, London and Pippard theory; Ginzburg-Landau theory: spontaneous symmetry braking, flux quantization, properties of type I and II superconductors; microscopic BCS theory: electron-phonon mechanism, Cooper pairing, coherent state, quasiparticle spectrum, quasiparticle tunnel, Josephson effects, superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUID), brief extension to unconventional superconductivity.
Lecture notesLecture notes and additional materials are available.
LiteratureM. Tinkham "Introduction to Superconductivity"
H. Stolz: "Supraleitung"
W. Buckel & R. Kleiner "Superconductivity"
P. G. de Gennes "Superconductivity Of Metals And Alloys"
A. A. Abrikosov "Fundamentals of the Theory of Metals"
Prerequisites / NoticeThe preceding attendance of the scheduled lecture courses "Introduction to Solid State Physics" and "Quantum Mechanics I" are mandatory. The courses "Quantum Mechanics II" and "Solid State Theory" provide the most optimal conditions to follow the course.
402-0674-00LPhysics in Medical Research: From Atoms to Cells Information W6 credits2V + 1UB. K. R. Müller
AbstractScanning probe and diffraction techniques allow studying activated atomic processes during early stages of epitaxial growth. For quantitative description, rate equation analysis, mean-field nucleation and scaling theories are applied on systems ranging from simple metallic to complex organic materials. The knowledge is expanded to optical and electronic properties as well as to proteins and cells.
ObjectiveThe lecture series is motivated by an overview covering the skin of the crystals, roughness analysis, contact angle measurements, protein absorption/activity and monocyte behaviour.

As the first step, real structures on clean surfaces including surface reconstructions and surface relaxations, defects in crystals are presented, before the preparation of clean metallic, semiconducting, oxidic and organic surfaces are introduced.

The atomic processes on surfaces are activated by the increase of the substrate temperature. They can be studied using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The combination with molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) allows determining the sizes of the critical nuclei and the other activated processes in a hierarchical fashion. The evolution of the surface morphology is characterized by the density and size distribution of the nanostructures that could be quantified by means of the rate equation analysis, the mean-field nucleation theory, as well as the scaling theory. The surface morphology is further characterized by defects and nanostructure's shapes, which are based on the strain relieving mechanisms and kinetic growth processes.

High-resolution electron diffraction is complementary to scanning probe techniques and provides exact mean values. Some phenomena are quantitatively described by the kinematic theory and perfectly understood by means of the Ewald construction. Other phenomena need to be described by the more complex dynamical theory. Electron diffraction is not only associated with elastic scattering but also inelastic excitation mechanisms that reflect the electronic structure of the surfaces studied. Low-energy electrons lead to phonon and high-energy electrons to plasmon excitations. Both effects are perfectly described by dipole and impact scattering.

Thin-films of rather complex organic materials are often quantitatively characterized by photons with a broad range of wavelengths from ultra-violet to infra-red light. Asymmetries and preferential orientations of the (anisotropic) molecules are verified using the optical dichroism and second harmonic generation measurements. These characterization techniques are vital for optimizing the preparation of medical implants and the determination of tissue's anisotropies within the human body.

Cell-surface interactions are related to the cell adhesion and the contractile cellular forces. Physical means have been developed to quantify these interactions. Other physical techniques are introduced in cell biology, namely to count and sort cells, to study cell proliferation and metabolism and to determine the relation between cell morphology and function.

3D scaffolds are important for tissue augmentation and engineering. Design, preparation methods, and characterization of these highly porous 3D microstructures are also presented.

Visiting clinical research in a leading university hospital will show the usefulness of the lecture series.
227-1037-00LIntroduction to Neuroinformatics Information W6 credits2V + 1UK. A. Martin, M. Cook, V. Mante, M. Pfeiffer
AbstractThe course provides an introduction to the functional properties of neurons. Particularly the description of membrane electrical properties (action potentials, channels), neuronal anatomy, synaptic structures, and neuronal networks. Simple models of computation, learning, and behavior will be explained. Some artificial systems (robot, chip) are presented.
ObjectiveUnderstanding computation by neurons and neuronal circuits is one of the great challenges of science. Many different disciplines can contribute their tools and concepts to solving mysteries of neural computation. The goal of this introductory course is to introduce the monocultures of physics, maths, computer science, engineering, biology, psychology, and even philosophy and history, to discover the enchantments and challenges that we all face in taking on this major 21st century problem and how each discipline can contribute to discovering solutions.
ContentThis course considers the structure and function of biological neural networks at different levels. The function of neural networks lies fundamentally in their wiring and in the electro-chemical properties of nerve cell membranes. Thus, the biological structure of the nerve cell needs to be understood if biologically-realistic models are to be constructed. These simpler models are used to estimate the electrical current flow through dendritic cables and explore how a more complex geometry of neurons influences this current flow. The active properties of nerves are studied to understand both sensory transduction and the generation and transmission of nerve impulses along axons. The concept of local neuronal circuits arises in the context of the rules governing the formation of nerve connections and topographic projections within the nervous system. Communication between neurons in the network can be thought of as information flow across synapses, which can be modified by experience. We need an understanding of the action of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters and neuromodulators, so that the dynamics and logic of synapses can be interpreted. Finally, the neural architectures of feedforward and recurrent networks will be discussed in the context of co-ordination, control, and integration of sensory and motor information in neural networks.
401-3531-00LDifferential Geometry I
This course counts as a core course in the Bachelor's degree programme in Mathematics. Holders of an ETH Zurich Bachelor's degree in Mathematics who didn't use credits from neither 401-3531-00L Differential Geometry I nor 401-3532-00L Differential Geometry II for their Bachelor's degree still can have recognised this course for the Master's degree.
Furthermore, at most one of the three course units
401-3461-00L Functional Analysis I
401-3531-00L Differential Geometry I
401-3601-00L Probability Theory
can be recognised for the Master's degree in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.
W10 credits4V + 1UU. Lang
AbstractCurves in R^n, inner geometry of hypersurfaces in R^n, curvature, Theorema Egregium, special classes of surfaces, Theorem of Gauss-Bonnet. Hyperbolic space. Differentiable manifolds, tangent bundle, immersions and embeddings, Sard's Theorem, mapping degree and intersection number, vector bundles, vector fields and flows, differential forms, Stokes' Theorem.
ObjectiveIntroduction to elementary differential geometry and differential topology.
Content- Differential geometry in R^n: theory of curves, submanifolds and immersions, inner geometry of hypersurfaces, Gauss map and curvature, Theorema Egregium, special classes of surfaces, Theorem of Gauss-Bonnet, Poincaré Index Theorem.
- The hyperbolic space.
- Differential topology: differentiable manifolds, tangent bundle, immersions and embeddings in R^n, Sard's Theorem, transversality, mapping degree and intersection number, vector bundles, vector fields and flows, differential forms, Stokes' Theorem.
LiteratureDifferential Geometry in R^n:
- Manfredo P. do Carmo: Differential geometry of curves and surfaces
- Wolfgang Kühnel: Differentialgeometrie. Curves-surfaces-manifolds
- Christian Bär: Elementary differential geometry
Differential Topology:
- Dennis Barden & Charles Thomas: An Introduction to Differential Manifolds
- Victor Guillemin & Alan Pollack: Differential Topology
- Morris W. Hirsch: Differential Topology
401-3461-00LFunctional Analysis I
This course counts as a core course in the Bachelor's degree programme in Mathematics. Holders of an ETH Zurich Bachelor's degree in Mathematics who didn't use credits from neither 401-3461-00L Functional Analysis I nor 401-3462-00L Functional Analysis II for their Bachelor's degree still can have recognised this course for the Master's degree.
Furthermore, at most one of the three course units
401-3461-00L Functional Analysis I
401-3531-00L Differential Geometry I
401-3601-00L Probability Theory
can be recognised for the Master's degree in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.
W10 credits4V + 1UM. Struwe
AbstractBaire category; Banach and Hilbert spaces, bounded linear operators; three fundamental principles: Uniform boundedness, open mapping/closed graph theorem, Hahn-Banach; convexity; dual spaces; weak and weak* topologies; Banach-Alaoglu; reflexive spaces; compact operators and Fredholm theory; closed range theorem; spectral theory of self-adjoint operators in Hilbert spaces.
Objective
Lecture notesLecture Notes on "Funktionalanalysis I" by Michael Struwe
401-3601-00LProbability Theory
This course counts as a core course in the Bachelor's degree programme in Mathematics. Holders of an ETH Zurich Bachelor's degree in Mathematics who didn't use credits from none of the three course units 401-3601-00L Probability Theory, 401-3642-00L Brownian Motion and Stochastic Calculus resp. 401-3602-00L Applied Stochastic Processes for their Bachelor's degree still can have recognised this course for the Master's degree.
Furthermore, at most one of the three course units
401-3461-00L Functional Analysis I
401-3531-00L Differential Geometry I
401-3601-00L Probability Theory
can be recognised for the Master's degree in Mathematics or Applied Mathematics.
W10 credits4V + 1UA.‑S. Sznitman
AbstractBasics of probability theory and the theory of stochastic processes in discrete time
ObjectiveThis course presents the basics of probability theory and the theory of stochastic processes in discrete time. The following topics are planned:
Basics in measure theory, random series, law of large numbers, weak convergence, characteristic functions, central limit theorem, conditional expectation, martingales, convergence theorems for martingales, Galton Watson chain, transition probability, Theorem of Ionescu Tulcea, Markov chains.
ContentThis course presents the basics of probability theory and the theory of stochastic processes in discrete time. The following topics are planned:
Basics in measure theory, random series, law of large numbers, weak convergence, characteristic functions, central limit theorem, conditional expectation, martingales, convergence theorems for martingales, Galton Watson chain, transition probability, Theorem of Ionescu Tulcea, Markov chains.
Lecture notesavailable, will be sold in the course
LiteratureR. Durrett, Probability: Theory and examples, Duxbury Press 1996
H. Bauer, Probability Theory, de Gruyter 1996
J. Jacod and P. Protter, Probability essentials, Springer 2004
A. Klenke, Wahrscheinlichkeitstheorie, Springer 2006
D. Williams, Probability with martingales, Cambridge University Press 1991
401-3621-00LFundamentals of Mathematical StatisticsW10 credits4V + 1UF. Balabdaoui
AbstractThe course covers the basics of inferential statistics.
Objective
» Electives (Physics Master)