Search result: Catalogue data in Autumn Semester 2023

Physics Master Information
Core Courses
One Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics from Physics Bachelor is eligible; however, this Core Course from Physics Bachelor cannot be used to compensate for the mandatory Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics.
For the category assignment keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration (www.phys.ethz.ch/studies/study-administration.html) after having received the credits.
Core Courses in Theoretical Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0861-00LStatistical PhysicsW10 credits4V + 2UG. M. Graf
AbstractThe lecture covers the concepts of classical and quantum statistical physics. The discussion ranges from foundations to specific systems, including their formalisms and techniques, such as bosonic and fermionic gases, and magnetism. Phenomena, most notably phase transitions, are treated by methods such as exact solutions, mean-field approximations, and the renormalization group.
Learning objectiveThis lecture gives an introduction to the basic concepts and applications of statistical physics for general use in physics and, in particular, as preparation for theoretical solid-state physics.
ContentThermodynamics: Laws of thermodynamics, thermodynamic potentials, phenomenology of phase transitions of first and second order. Van der Waals gas-liquid transition.
Classical statistical physics: micro-canonical-, canonical-, and grand canonical ensembles; the arrow of time, applications to interacting systems, and cumulant expansion.
Quantum statistical physics: density matrix, ensembles, ideal quantum gases, fermions and bosons, second quantization, statistical interaction.
Degenerate fermions: Fermi gas, electrons in magnetic field.
Bosons: photons and phonons, Bose-Einstein condensation. Bogolyubov’s theory of superfluidity and liquid Helium.
Magnetism: Ising-, XY-, Heisenberg models, exact solutions, mean-field theory, Peierls' argument on long-range order, Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless transition.
Landau theory of phase transitions and symmetry.
Critical phenomena: scaling theory, universality, and the renormalization group.
Lecture notesLecture notes available in English.
LiteratureNo specific book is used for the course. Relevant literature will be given in the course.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
402-0843-00LQuantum Field Theory I
Special Students UZH must book the module PHY551 directly at UZH.
W10 credits4V + 2UC. Anastasiou
AbstractThis course discusses the quantisation of fields in order to introduce a coherent formalism for the combination of quantum mechanics and special relativity.
Topics include:
- Relativistic quantum mechanics
- Quantisation of bosonic and fermionic fields
- Interactions in perturbation theory
- Scattering processes and decays
- Elementary processes in QED
- Radiative corrections
Learning objectiveThe goal of this course is to provide a solid introduction to the formalism, the techniques, and important physical applications of quantum field theory. Furthermore it prepares students for the advanced course in quantum field theory (Quantum Field Theory II), and for work on research projects in theoretical physics, particle physics, and condensed-matter physics.
Lecture notesWill be provided as the course progresses
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
402-0830-00LGeneral Relativity Information W10 credits4V + 2UL. Senatore
AbstractIntroduction to the theory of general relativity. The course puts a strong focus on the mathematical foundations of the theory as well as the underlying physical principles and concepts. It covers selected applications, such as the Schwarzschild solution and gravitational waves.
Learning objectiveBasic understanding of general relativity, its mathematical foundations (in particular the relevant aspects of differential geometry), and some of the phenomena it predicts (with a focus on black holes).
ContentIntroduction to the theory of general relativity. The course puts a strong focus on the mathematical foundations, such as differentiable manifolds, the Riemannian and Lorentzian metric, connections, and curvature. It discusses the underlying physical principles, e.g., the equivalence principle, and concepts, such as curved spacetime and the energy-momentum tensor. The course covers some basic applications and special cases, including the Newtonian limit, post-Newtonian expansions, the Schwarzschild solution, light deflection, and gravitational waves.
LiteratureSuggested textbooks:

C. Misner, K, Thorne and J. Wheeler: Gravitation
S. Carroll - Spacetime and Geometry: An Introduction to General Relativity
R. Wald - General Relativity
S. Weinberg - Gravitation and Cosmology
Core Courses: Experimental Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0257-00LAdvanced Solid State PhysicsW10 credits3V + 2UW. Wegscheider
AbstractThis course is an extension of the introductory course on solid state physics.

The purpose of this course is to learn to navigate the complex collective quantum phases, excitations and phase transitions
that are the dominant theme in modern solid state physics. The emphasis is on the main concepts and on specific experimental
examples, both classic ones and those from recent research.
Learning objectiveThe goal is to study how novel phenomena emerge in the solid state.
ContentToday's challenges and opportunities in Solid State Physics:
Phase transitions and critical phenomena, Fermi surface instabilities, Superconductors, Magnetism of insulators, Semiconductors
Lecture notesThe printed material for this course involves: (1) a self-contained script, distributed electronically at semester start. (2) experimental examples (Power Point slide-style) selected from original publications, distributed at the start of every lecture.
LiteratureA list of books will be distributed. Numerous references to useful published scientific papers will be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticeThis course is for students who like to be engaged in active learning. The "exercise classes" are organized in a non-traditional way: following the idea of "less is more", we will work on only about half a dozen topics, and this gives students a chance to take a look at original literature (provided), and to get the grasp of a topic from a broader perspective.

Students report back that this mode of "exercise class" is more satisfying than traditional modes, even if it does not mean less effort.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesMedia and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
402-0442-00LQuantum OpticsW10 credits3V + 2UT. U. Donner
AbstractThis course gives an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Quantum Optics and will highlight state-of-the-art developments in this rapidly evolving discipline. The topics covered include the quantum nature of light, semi-classical and quantum mechanical description of light-matter interaction, laser manipulation of atoms and ions, optomechanics and quantum computation.
Learning objectiveThe course aims to provide the knowledge necessary for pursuing research in the field of Quantum Optics. Fundamental concepts and techniques of Quantum Optics will be linked to modern experimental research. During the course the students should acquire the capability to understand currently published research in the field.
ContentThis course gives an introduction to the fundamental concepts of Quantum Optics and will highlight state-of-the-art developments in this rapidly evolving discipline. The topics that are covered include:

- coherence properties of light
- quantum nature of light: statistics and non-classical states of light
- light matter interaction: density matrix formalism and Bloch equations
- quantum description of light matter interaction: the Jaynes-Cummings model, photon blockade
- laser manipulation of atoms and ions: laser cooling and trapping, atom interferometry,
- further topics: Rydberg atoms, optomechanics, quantum computing, complex quantum systems.
Lecture notesSelected book chapters will be distributed.
LiteratureText-books:

G. Grynberg, A. Aspect and C. Fabre, Introduction to Quantum Optics
R. Loudon, The Quantum Theory of Light
Atomic Physics, Christopher J. Foot
Advances in Atomic Physics, Claude Cohen-Tannoudji and David Guéry-Odelin
C. Cohen-Tannoudji et al., Atom-Photon-Interactions
M. Scully and M.S. Zubairy, Quantum Optics
Y. Yamamoto and A. Imamoglu, Mesoscopic Quantum Optics
CompetenciesCompetencies
Concepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingfostered
402-0402-00LUltrafast Laser Physics Information W10 credits3V + 2UL. Gallmann, S. Johnson, U. Keller
AbstractIntroduction to ultrafast laser physics with an outlook into cutting edge research topics such as attosecond science and coherent ultrafast sources from THz to X-rays.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding of basic physics and technology for pursuing research in ultrafast laser science. How are ultrashort laser pulses generated, how do they interact with matter, how can we measure these shortest man-made events and how can we use them to time-resolve ultrafast processes in nature? Fundamental concepts and techniques will be linked to a selection of hot topics in current research and applications.
ContentThe lecture covers the following topics:

a) Linear pulse propagation: mathematical description of pulses and their propagation in linear optical systems, effect of dispersion on ultrashort pulses, concepts of pulse carrier and envelope, time-bandwidth product

b) Dispersion compensation: technologies for controlling dispersion, pulse shaping, measurement of dispersion

c) Nonlinear pulse propagation: intensity-dependent refractive index (Kerr effect), self-phase modulation, nonlinear pulse compression, self-focusing, filamentation, nonlinear Schrödinger equation, solitons, non-instantaneous nonlinear effects (Raman/Brillouin), self-steepening, saturable gain and absorption

d) Second-order nonlinearities with ultrashort pulses: phase-matching with short pulses and real beams, quasi-phase matching, second-harmonic and sum-frequency generation, parametric amplification and generation

e) Relaxation oscillations: dynamical behavior of rate equations after perturbation

f) Q-switching: active Q-switching and its theory based on rate equations, active Q-switching technologies, passive Q-switching and theory

g) Active modelocking: introduction to modelocking, frequency comb versus axial modes, theory for various regimes of laser operation, Haus master equation formalism

h) Passive modelocking: slow, fast and ideally fast saturable absorbers, semiconductor saturable absorber mirror (SESAM), designs of and materials for SESAMs, modelocking with slow absorber and dynamic gain saturation, modelocking with ideally fast saturable absorber, Kerr-lens modelocking, soliton modelocking, Q-switching instabilities in modelocked lasers, inverse saturable absorption

i) Pulse duration measurements: rf cables and electronics, fast photodiodes, linear system theory for microwave test systems, intensity and interferometric autocorrelations and their limitations, frequency-resolved optical gating, spectral phase interferometry for direct electric-field reconstruction and more

j) Noise: microwave spectrum analyzer as laser diagnostics, amplitude noise and timing jitter of ultrafast lasers, lock-in detection

k) Ultrafast measurements: pump-probe scheme, transient absorption/differential transmission spectroscopy, four-wave mixing, optical gating and more

l) Frequency combs and carrier-envelope offset phase: measurement and stabilization of carrier-envelope offset phase (CEP), time and frequency domain applications of CEP-stabilized sources

m) High-harmonic generation and attosecond science: non-perturbative nonlinear optics / strong-field phenomena, high-harmonic generation (HHG), phase-matching in HHG, attosecond pulse generation, attosecond technology: detectors and diagnostics, attosecond metrology (streaking, RABBITT, transient absorption, attoclock), example experiments

n) Ultrafast THz science: generation and detection, physics in THz domain, weak-field and strong-field applications

o) Brief introduction to other hot topics: relativistic and ultra-high intensity ultrafast science, ultrafast electron sources, free-electron lasers, etc.
Lecture notesClass notes will be made available.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Basic knowledge of quantum electronics (e. g., 402-0275-00L Quantenelektronik).
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
402-0891-00LPhenomenology of Particle Physics IW10 credits3V + 2UP. Crivelli, A. de Cosa
AbstractTopics to be covered in Phenomenology of Particle Physics I:
Relativistic kinematics
Decay rates and cross sections
The Dirac equation
From the S-matrix to the Feynman rules of QED
Scattering processes in QED
Experimental tests of QED
Hadron spectroscopy
Unitary symmetries and QCD
QCD and alpha_s running
QCD in e^+e^- annihilation
Experimental tests of QCD in e^+e^- annihilation
Learning objectiveIntroduction to modern particle physics
ContentTopics to be covered in Phenomenology of Particle Physics I:
Relativistic kinematics
Decay rates and cross sections
The Dirac equation
From the S-matrix to the Feynman rules of QED
Scattering processes in QED
Experimental tests of QED
Hadron spectroscopy
Unitary symmetries and QCD
QCD and alpha_s running
QCD in e^+e^- annihilation
Experimental tests of QCD in e^+e^- annihilation
LiteratureAs described in the entity: Lernmaterialien
402-0448-01LQuantum Information Processing I: Concepts
This theory part QIP I together with the experimental part 402-0448-02L QIP II (both offered in the autumn semester) combine to the core course in experimental physics "Quantum Information Processing" (totally 10 ECTS credits). This applies to the Master's degree programme in Physics.
W5 credits2V + 1UJ. Renes
AbstractThe course covers the key concepts and formalism of quantum information processing. Topics include quantum algorithms, quantum error correction, quantum cryptography, and quantum metrology, with an emphasis on the power of quantum information processing beyond that of classical information processing. The formalism of quantum states, measurements, and channels is developed in detail.
Learning objectiveBy the end of the course students are able to explain the basic mathematical formalism of quantum mechanics and apply it to quantum information processing problems. They are able to adapt and apply these concepts and methods to analyze and discuss quantum algorithms and other quantum information-processing protocols.
ContentThe topics covered in the course will include quantum circuits, gate decomposition and universal sets of gates, efficiency of quantum circuits, quantum algorithms (Shor, Grover, Deutsch-Josza,..), stabilizer-based quantum error correction, fault-tolerant designs, the BB84 quantum key distribution protocol, and simple methods of quantum metrology.
Lecture notesWill be provided.
LiteratureQuantum Computation and Quantum Information
Michael Nielsen and Isaac Chuang
Cambridge University Press
Prerequisites / NoticeA good understanding of finite dimensional linear algebra is recommended.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
402-0448-02LQuantum Information Processing II: Implementations
This experimental part QIP II together with the theory part 402-0448-01L QIP I (both offered in the autumn semester) combine to the core course in experimental physics "Quantum Information Processing" (totally 10 ECTS credits). This applies to the Master's degree programme in Physics.
W5 credits2V + 1UA. Wallraff, J.‑C. Besse
AbstractIntroduction to experimental systems for quantum information processing (QIP). Quantum bits. Coherent Control. Measurement. Decoherence. Microscopic and macroscopic quantum systems. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Photons. Ions and neutral atoms in electromagnetic traps. Charges and spins in quantum dots and NV centers. Charges and flux quanta in superconducting circuits. Novel hybrid systems.
Learning objectiveThroughout the past 20 years the realm of quantum physics has entered the domain of information technology in more and more prominent ways. Enormous progress in the physical sciences and in engineering and technology has allowed us to build novel types of information processors based on the concepts of quantum physics. In these processors information is stored in the quantum state of physical systems forming quantum bits (qubits). The interaction between qubits is controlled and the resulting states are read out on the level of single quanta in order to process information. Realizing such challenging tasks is believed to allow constructing an information processor much more powerful than a classical computer. This task is taken on by academic labs, startups and major industry. The aim of this class is to give a thorough introduction to physical implementations pursued in current research for realizing quantum information processors. The field of quantum information science is one of the fastest growing and most active domains of research in modern physics.
ContentIntroduction to experimental systems for quantum information processing (QIP).
- Quantum bits
- Coherent Control
- Measurement
- Decoherence
QIP with
- Ions
- Superconducting Circuits
- Photons
- NMR
- Rydberg atoms
- NV-centers
- Quantum dots
Lecture notesCourse material be made available at www.qudev.ethz.ch and on the Moodle platform for the course. More details to follow.
LiteratureQuantum Computation and Quantum Information
Michael Nielsen and Isaac Chuang
Cambridge University Press
Prerequisites / NoticeThe class will be taught in English language.

Basic knowledge of concepts of quantum physics and quantum systems, e.g from courses such as Phyiscs III, Quantum Mechanics I and II or courses on topics such as atomic physics, solid state physics, quantum electronics are considered helpful.

More information on this class can be found on the web site www.qudev.ethz.ch
Electives
Electives: Physics and Mathematics
Selection: Solid State Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0469-67LParametric Phenomena
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits3GA. Eichler
AbstractThere are numerous physical phenomena that rely on time-dependent Hamiltonians (or parametric driving) to amplify, cool, squeeze or couple resonating systems. In this course, we will introduce parametric phenomena in different fields of physics, ranging from classical engineering ideas to devices proposed for quantum neural networks.
Learning objectiveThis course is intended for
- experimentalists who desire to gain a solid theoretical understanding of nonlinear driven-dissipative systems,
- theorists looking to expand their analytical and numerical toolbox,
- any scientist interested to learn what lies beyond the harmonic resonator.

In the course, the students will grasp the ubiquitous nature of parametric phenomena and apply it to both classical and quantum systems. The students will understand both the theoretical foundations leading to the parametric drive as well as the experimental aspect related to the realizations of the effect. Each student will analyze an independent system using the tools acquired in the course and will present his/her insights to the class.
ContentThis course will provide a general framework for understanding and linking various phenomena, ranging from the child-on-a-swing problem to quantum limited amplifiers, to optical frequency combs, and to optomechanical sensors used in the LIGO experiment. The course will combine theoretical lectures and the study of important experiments through literature.

The students will receive an extended lecture summary as well as numerous MATHEMATICA and Python scripts, including QuTiP notebooks. These tools will enable them to apply analytical and numerical methods to a wide range of systems beyond the duration of the course.
Lecture notesA full script will be available.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe students should be familiar with wave mechanics as well as second quantization. Following the course requires a laptop with Python and MATHEMATICA installed.
402-0526-00LUltrafast Processes in SolidsW6 credits2V + 1UY. M. Acremann
AbstractUltrafast processes in solids are of fundamental interest as well as relevant for modern technological applications. The dynamics of the lattice, the electron gas as well as the spin system of a solid are discussed. The focus is on time resolved experiments which provide insight into pico- and femtosecond dynamics.
Learning objectiveAfter attending this course you understand the dynamics of essential excitation processes which occur in solids and you have an overview over state of the art experimental techniques used to study fast processes.
Content1. Experimental techniques, an overview

2. Dynamics of the electron gas
2.1 First experiments on electron dynamics and lattice heating
2.2 The finite lifetime of excited states
2.3 Detection of lifetime effects
2.4 Dynamical properties of reactions and adsorbents

3. Dynamics of the lattice
3.1 Phonons
3.2 Non-thermal melting

4. Dynamics of the spin system
4.1 Laser induced ultrafast demagnetization
4.2 Ultrafast spin currents generated by lasers
4.3 Landau-Lifschitz-Dynamics
4.4 Laser induced switching

5. Correlated materials
Lecture noteswill be distributed
Literaturerelevant publications will be cited
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture can also be followed by interested non-physics students as basic concepts will be introduced.
402-0535-00LIntroduction to Magnetism Information W6 credits3GA. Vindigni
AbstractThis course tackles the fundamental question of why only a few materials exhibit magnetism in Nature. The origin of atomic magnetic moments and the key mechanisms that govern their interactions are justified starting from fundamental principles. In addition, the influence of thermal fluctuations on magnetic ordering is discussed as well as the formalism to describe magnetic resonance phenomena.
Learning objectiveBy the end of this course, students will develop the ability to utilize quantum mechanics concepts to estimate the strength of atomic magnetic moments and understand their reciprocal interactions. They will gain proficiency in interpreting experimental measurements on model systems in terms of material composition and an appropriate, phenomenological spin Hamiltonian. For instance, students will be able to recognize whether the magnetic hysteresis observed in some samples arises from slow dynamics or from a phase transition. Lastly, they will be capable of interpreting the occurrence of abrupt transitions or the emergence of characteristic length scales as resulting from the interplay between competing interactions. Altogether, students will acquire the basic knowledge needed to develop a research project in the field of magnetism or to attend effectively more advanced courses on this topic.
ContentThe lecture “Introduction to Magnetism” aims at letting students familiarize themselves with the basic principles of quantum and statistical physics that determine the behavior of real magnets. Understanding why only a few materials are magnetic at finite temperature will be the leitmotiv of the course. We will see that defining in a formal way what “being magnetic” means is essential to address this question properly. Theoretical concepts will be applied to a few selected nano-sized magnets, which will serve as clean reference systems.
Topics:
- Magnetism in atoms (quantum-mechanical origin of atomic magnetic moments, intra-atomic exchange interaction)
- Magnetism in solids (mechanisms producing inter-atomic exchange interaction in solids, crystal field)
- Magnetic order at finite temperatures (Ising, XY, and Heisenberg models, low-dimensional magnetism)
- Spin precession and relaxation (Larmor precession, resonance phenomena, quantum tunneling, Bloch equation, superparamagnetism)
Lecture notesLearning material will be made available through Moodle and through the ETH JupyterHub.
Prerequisites / NoticeStudents are assumed to possess a basic background knowledge in quantum mechanics, solid-state and statistical physics as well as classical electromagnetism.
Students will have the opportunity to self-assess their understanding through quizzes and interactive tutorials, mostly inspired by topics of current research in nanoscale magnetism.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingassessed
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
402-0595-00LSemiconductor NanostructuresW6 credits2V + 1UT. M. Ihn
AbstractThe course covers the foundations of semiconductor nanostructures, e.g., materials, band structures, bandgap engineering and doping, field-effect transistors. The physics of the quantum Hall effect and of common nanostructures based on two-dimensional electron gases will be discussed, i.e., quantum point contacts, Aharonov-Bohm rings and quantum dots.
Learning objectiveAt the end of the lecture the student should understand four key phenomena of electron transport in semiconductor nanostructures:
1. The integer quantum Hall effect
2. Conductance quantization in quantum point contacts
3. the Aharonov-Bohm effect
4. Coulomb blockade in quantum dots
Content1. Introduction and overview
2. Semiconductor crystals: Fabrication and molecular beam epitaxy
3. Band structures of semiconductors
4. k.p-theory, effective mass, envelope functions
5. Heterostructures and band engineering, doping
6. Surfaces and metal-semiconductor contacts, fabrication of semiconductor nanostructures
7. Heterostructures and two-dimensional electron gases
8. Drude Transport and scattering mechanisms
9. Single- and bilayer graphene
10. Electron transport in quantum point contacts; Landauer-Büttiker description, ballistic transport experiments
11. Interference effects in Aharonov-Bohm rings
12. Electron in a magnetic field, Shubnikov-de Haas effect
13. Integer quantum Hall effect
14. Coulomb blockade and quantum dots
Lecture notesT. Ihn, Semiconductor Nanostructures, Quantum States and Electronic Transport, Oxford University Press, 2010.
LiteratureIn addition to the lecture notes, the following supplementary books can be recommended:
1. J. H. Davies: The Physics of Low-Dimensional Semiconductors, Cambridge University Press (1998)
2. S. Datta: Electronic Transport in Mesoscopic Systems, Cambridge University Press (1997)
3. D. Ferry: Transport in Nanostructures, Cambridge University Press (1997)
4. T. M. Heinzel: Mesoscopic Electronics in Solid State Nanostructures: an Introduction, Wiley-VCH (2003)
5. Beenakker, van Houten: Quantum Transport in Semiconductor Nanostructures, in: Semiconductor Heterostructures and Nanostructures, Academic Press (1991)
6. Y. Imry: Introduction to Mesoscopic Physics, Oxford University Press (1997)
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture is suitable for all physics students beyond the bachelor of science degree. Basic knowledge of solid state physics is a prerequisit. Very ambitioned students in the third year may be able to follow. The lecture can be chosen as part of the PhD-program. The course is taught in English.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesassessed
Problem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence assessed
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsassessed
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
402-0317-00LSemiconductor Materials: Fundamentals and FabricationW6 credits2V + 1US. Schön, W. Wegscheider
AbstractThis course gives an introduction into the fundamentals of semiconductor materials. The main focus is on state-of-the-art fabrication and characterization methods. The course will be continued in the spring term with a focus on applications.
Learning objectiveBasic knowledge of semiconductor physics and technology. Application of this knowledge for state-of-the-art semiconductor device processing
Content1. Fundamentals of Solid State Physics
1.1 Semiconductor materials
1.2 Band structures
1.3 Carrier statistics in intrinsic and doped semiconductors
1.4 p-n junctions
1.5 Low-dimensional structures
2. Bulk Material growth of Semiconductors
2.1 Czochalski method
2.2 Floating zone method
2.3 High pressure synthesis
3. Semiconductor Epitaxy
3.1 Fundamentals of Epitaxy
3.2 Molecular Beam Epitaxy (MBE)
3.3 Metal-Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition (MOCVD)
3.4 Liquid Phase Epitaxy (LPE)
4. In situ characterization
4.1 Pressure and temperature
4.2 Reflectometry
4.3 Ellipsometry and RAS
4.4 LEED, AES, XPS
4.5 STM, AFM
5. The invention of the transistor - Christmas lecture
Lecture noteshttps://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/course/view.php?id=20749
Prerequisites / NoticeThe "compulsory performance element" of this lecture is a short presentation of a research paper complementing the lecture topics. Several topics and corresponding papers will be offered on the moodle page of this lecture.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
402-0447-00LQuantum Science with Superconducting Circuits
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 1UA. Wallraff
AbstractSuperconducting Circuits provide a versatile experimental platform to explore the most intriguing quantum-physical phenomena and constitute one of the prime contenders to build quantum computers. Students will get a thorough introduction to the underlying physical concepts, the experimental setting, and the state-of-the-art of quantum computing in this emerging research field.
Learning objectiveBased on today’s most advanced solid state platform for quantum control, the students will learn how to engineer quantum coherent devices and how to use them to process quantum information. The students will acquire both analytical and numerical methods to model the properties and phenomena observed in these systems. The course is positioned at the intersection between quantum physics and engineering.
ContentIntroduction to Quantum information Processing -- Superconducting Qubits -- Quantum Measurements -- Experimental Setup & Noise Mitigation -- Open Quantum Systems -- Multi-Qubit Systems: Entangling gates & Characterization -- Quantum Error Correction -- Near-term Applications of Quantum Computers
Prerequisites / NoticeAll students and researchers with a general interest in quantum information science, quantum optics, and quantum engineering are welcome to this course. Basic knowledge of quantum physics is a plus, but not a strict requirement for the successful participation in this course.
Selection: Quantum Electronics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0442-05LAdvanced Topics in Quantum Optics Restricted registration - show details
Does not take place this semester.
W4 credits2GT. Esslinger
AbstractThe lecture will cover current topics and scientific papers in the wider field of quantum optics in an interactive format. First, the research area will be introduced, then several papers of this field will be presented by the students in the style of a journal club. Selected papers will be contrasted and their strengths and weaknesses discussed by the students in panel discussions. Furthermore, r
Learning objectiveThe aim of the lecture is to deepen and broaden the knowledge about current research in the field of quantum optics. In addition, it will also be discussed and critically examined how research results are communicated via publications and lectures and which techniques are used in the process.
ContentWe will select topical fields in quantum optics and quantum science and discuss recently published work.

Topics:
- Atoms or ions-based quantum computing
- Quantum simulation
- Opto-mechanics
- Driven and dissipative quantum systems
- Cavity based atom-light interaction
- Topological photonics

The interactive part of the lecture will include presentations of recent papers, panel discussions of recent papers and the writing of a critical assessment of an arXiv paper in the style of a referee report.
402-0444-00LDissipative Quantum Systems
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 1UA. Imamoglu
AbstractThis course builds up on the material covered in the Quantum Optics course. The emphasis will be on quantum optics in condensed-matter systems.
Learning objectiveThe course aims to provide the knowledge necessary for pursuing advanced research in the field of Quantum Optics in condensed matter systems. Fundamental concepts and techniques of Quantum Optics will be linked to experimental research in systems such as quantum dots, exciton-polaritons, quantum Hall fluids and graphene-like materials.
ContentDescription of open quantum systems using master equation and quantum trajectories. Decoherence and quantum measurements. Dicke superradiance. Dissipative phase transitions. Spin photonics. Signatures of electron-phonon and electron-electron interactions in optical response.
Lecture notesLecture notes will be provided
LiteratureC. Cohen-Tannoudji et al., Atom-Photon-Interactions (recommended)
Y. Yamamoto and A. Imamoglu, Mesoscopic Quantum Optics (recommended)
A collection of review articles (will be pointed out during the lecture)
Prerequisites / NoticeMasters level quantum optics knowledge
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCooperation and Teamworkassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
402-0457-00LQuantum Technologies for Searches of New Physics
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 1UP. Crivelli
AbstractRecent years have witnessed incredible progress in the development of new quantum technologies driven by their application in quantum information, metrology, high precision spectroscopy and quantum sensing. This course will present how these emerging technologies are powerful tools to address open questions of the Standard Model in a complementary way to what is done at the high energy frontier.
Learning objectiveThe aim of this course is to equip students of different backgrounds with a solid base to follow this rapidly developing and exciting multi-disciplinary field.
ContentThe first lectures will be dedicated to review the open questions of the Standard Model and the different Beyond Standard Model extensions which can be probed with quantum technologies. This will include searches for dark sector, dark matter, axion and axion-like particles, new gauge bosons (e.g Dark photons) and extra short-range forces.

The main part of the course will introduce the following (quantum) technologies and systems, and how they can be used for probing New Physics.
- Cold atoms
- Trapped ions
- Atoms interferometry
- Atomic clocks
- Cold molecules and molecular clocks
- Exotic Atoms
- Anti-matter
- Quantum Sensors
Prerequisites / NoticeThe preceding attendance of introductory particle physics, quantum mechanics and quantum electronics courses at the bachelor level is recommended.
402-0464-00LOptical Properties of SemiconductorsW8 credits2V + 2UG. Scalari, P. Anantha Murthy
AbstractThis course presents a comprehensive discussion of optical processes in semiconductors.
Learning objectiveThe rich physics of the optical properties of semiconductors, as well as the advanced processing available on these material, enabled numerous applications (lasers, LEDs and solar cells) as well as the realization of new physical concepts. Systems that will be covered include quantum dots, exciton-polaritons, quantum Hall fluids and graphene-like materials.
ContentElectronic states in III-V materials and quantum structures, optical transitions, excitons and polaritons, novel two dimensional semiconductors, spin-orbit interaction and magneto-optics.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Quantum Mechanics I, Introduction to Solid State Physics
402-0465-58LIntersubband OptoelectronicsW6 credits2V + 1UG. Scalari, J. Faist
AbstractIntersubband transitions in quantum wells are transitions between states created by quantum confinement in ultra-thin layers of semiconductors. Because of its inherent taylorability, this system can be seen as the "ultimate quantum designer's material".
Learning objectiveThe goal of this lecture is to explore both the rich physics as well as the application of these system for sources and detectors. In fact, devices based on intersubband transitions are now unlocking large area of the electromagnetic spectrum.
ContentThe lecture will treat the following chapters:
- Introduction: intersubband optoelectronics as an example of quantum engineering
-Technological aspects
- Electronic states in semiconductor quantum wells
- Intersubband absorption and scattering processes
- Mid-Ir and THz ISB Detectors
-Mid-infrared and THz photonics: waveguides, resonators, metamaterials
- Quantum Cascade lasers:
-Mid-IR QCLs
-THZ QCLs (direct and non-linear generation)
-further electronic confinement: interlevel Qdot transitions and magnetic field effects
-Strong light-matter coupling in Mid-IR and THz range
Lecture notesThe reference book for the lecture is "Quantum Cascade Lasers" by Jerome Faist , published by Oxford University Press.
LiteratureMostly the original articles, other useful reading can be found in:

-E. Rosencher and B. Vinter, Optoelectronics , Cambridge Univ. Press
-G. Bastard, Wave mechanics applied to semiconductor heterostructures, Halsted press
Prerequisites / NoticeRequirements: A basic knowledge of solid-state physics and of quantum electronics.
402-0468-15LNanomaterials for Photonics
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 1UR. Grange
AbstractThe lecture describes various nanomaterials (semiconductor, metal, dielectric, carbon-based...) for photonic applications (optoelectronics, plasmonics, ordered and disordered structures...). It starts with concepts of light-matter interactions, then the fabrication methods, the optical characterization techniques, the description of the properties and the state-of-the-art applications.
Learning objectiveThe students will acquire theoretical and experimental knowledge about the different types of nanomaterials (semiconductors, metals, dielectric, carbon-based, ...) and their uses as building blocks for advanced applications in photonics (optoelectronics, plasmonics, photonic crystal, ...). Together with the exercises, the students will learn (1) to read, summarize and discuss scientific articles related to the lecture, (2) to estimate order of magnitudes with calculations using the theory seen during the lecture, (3) to prepare a short oral presentation and report about one topic related to the lecture, and (4) to imagine an original photonic device.
Content1. Introduction to nanomaterials for photonics
a. Classification of nanomaterials
b. Light-matter interaction at the nanoscale
c. Examples of nanophotonic devices

2. Wave physics for nanophotonics
a. Wavelength, wave equation, wave propagation
b. Dispersion relation
c. Interference
d. Scattering and absorption
e. Coherent and incoherent light

3. Analogies between photons and electrons
a. Quantum wave description
b. How to confine photons and electrons
c. Tunneling effects

4. Characterization of Nanomaterials
a. Optical microscopy: Bright and dark field, fluorescence, confocal, High resolution: PALM (STORM), STED
b. Light scattering techniques: DLS
c. Near field microscopy: SNOM
d. Electron microscopy: SEM, TEM
e. Scanning probe microscopy: STM, AFM
f. X-ray diffraction: XRD, EDS

5. Fabrication of nanomaterials
a. Top-down approach
b. Bottom-up approach

6. Plasmonics
a. What is a plasmon, Drude model
b. Surface plasmon and localized surface plasmon (sphere, rod, shell)
c. Theoretical models to calculate the radiated field: electrostatic approximation and Mie scattering
d. Fabrication of plasmonic structures: Chemical synthesis, Nanofabrication
e. Applications

7. Organic and inorganic nanomaterials
a. Organic quantum-confined structure: nanomers and quantum dots.
b. Carbon nanotubes: properties, bandgap description, fabrication
c. Graphene: motivation, fabrication, devices
d. Nanomarkers for biophotonics

8. Semiconductors
a. Crystalline structure, wave function
b. Quantum well: energy levels equation, confinement
c. Quantum wires, quantum dots
d. Optical properties related to quantum confinement
e. Example of effects: absorption, photoluminescence
f. Solid-state-lasers: edge emitting, surface emitting, quantum cascade

9. Photonic crystals
a. Analogy photonic and electronic crystal, in nature
b. 1D, 2D, 3D photonic crystal
c. Theoretical modelling: frequency and time domain technique
d. Features: band gap, local enhancement, superprism...

10. Nanocomposites
a. Effective medium regime
b. Metamaterials
c. Multiple scattering regime
d. Complex media: structural colour, random lasers, nonlinear disorder
Lecture notesSlides and book chapter will be available for downloading
LiteratureReferences will be given during the lecture
Prerequisites / NoticeBasics of solid-state physics (i.e. energy bands) can help
402-0492-00LExperimental Techniques in Quantum and Electro-OpticsW6 credits2V + 1UD. Kienzler, D. Prado Lopes Aude Craik
AbstractWe will cover experimental issues in making measurements in modern physics experiments. The primary challenge in any measurement is achieving good signal to noise. We will cover areas such as optical propagation, electronics, noise limits and feedback control. Methods for stabilizing frequencies and intensities of laser systems will also be described.
Learning objectiveI aim to give an in depth understanding of experimental issues for students wishing to work on experimental science. The methods covered are widely applicable in modern physics, since light and electronics are the primary methods by which measurements are made across the field.
ContentThe course will cover a number of different areas of experimental physics, including
Optical elements and propagation
Electronics and Electronic Noise
Optical Detection
Control Theory

Examples from a modern quantum information laboratory will be discussed and illustrated through active devices in the lecture.
Selection: Particle Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0457-00LQuantum Technologies for Searches of New Physics
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 1UP. Crivelli
AbstractRecent years have witnessed incredible progress in the development of new quantum technologies driven by their application in quantum information, metrology, high precision spectroscopy and quantum sensing. This course will present how these emerging technologies are powerful tools to address open questions of the Standard Model in a complementary way to what is done at the high energy frontier.
Learning objectiveThe aim of this course is to equip students of different backgrounds with a solid base to follow this rapidly developing and exciting multi-disciplinary field.
ContentThe first lectures will be dedicated to review the open questions of the Standard Model and the different Beyond Standard Model extensions which can be probed with quantum technologies. This will include searches for dark sector, dark matter, axion and axion-like particles, new gauge bosons (e.g Dark photons) and extra short-range forces.

The main part of the course will introduce the following (quantum) technologies and systems, and how they can be used for probing New Physics.
- Cold atoms
- Trapped ions
- Atoms interferometry
- Atomic clocks
- Cold molecules and molecular clocks
- Exotic Atoms
- Anti-matter
- Quantum Sensors
Prerequisites / NoticeThe preceding attendance of introductory particle physics, quantum mechanics and quantum electronics courses at the bachelor level is recommended.
402-0715-00LLow Energy Particle PhysicsW6 credits2V + 1UA. S. Antognini, D. Ries
AbstractLow energy particle physics provides complementary information to high energy physics with colliders. In this lecture, we will concentrate on flagship experiments which have significantly improved our understanding of particle physics today, concentrating mainly on precision experiments with neutrons, muons and exotic atoms.
Learning objectiveYou will be able to present and discuss:
- the principle of the experiments
- the underlying technique and methods
- the context and the impact of these experiments on particle physics
ContentLow energy particle physics provides complementary information to high energy physics with colliders. At the Large Hadron Collider one directly searches for new particles at energies up to the TeV range. In a complementary way, low energy particle physics indirectly probes the existence of such particles and provides constraints for "new physics", making use of high precision and high intensities.

Besides the sensitivity to effects related with new physics (e.g. lepton flavor violation, symmetry violations, CPT tests, search for electric dipole moments, new low mass exchange bosons etc.), low energy physics provides the best test of QED (electron g-2), the best tests of bound-state QED (atomic physics and exotic atoms), precise determinations of fundamental constants, information about the CKM matrix, precise information on the weak and strong force even in the non-perturbative regime etc.

Starting from a general introduction on high intensity/high precision particle physics and the main characteristics of muons and neutrons and their production, we will then focus on the discussion of fundamental problems and ground-breaking experiments:

- search for rare decays and charged lepton flavor violation
- electric dipole moments and CP violation
- spectroscopy of exotic atoms and symmetries of the standard model
- what atomic physics can do for particle physics and vice versa
- neutron decay and primordial nucleosynthesis
- atomic clock
- Penning traps
- Ramsey spectroscopy
- Spin manipulation
- neutron-matter interaction
- ultra-cold neutron production
- various techniques: detectors, cryogenics, particle beams, laser cooling....
LiteratureGolub, Richardson & Lamoreaux: "Ultra-Cold Neutrons"
Rauch & Werner: "Neutron Interferometry"
Carlile & Willis: "Experimental Neutron Scattering"
Byrne: "Neutrons, Nuclei and Matter"
Klapdor-Kleingrothaus: "Non Accelerator Particle Physics"
Prerequisites / NoticeEinführung in die Kern- und Teilchenphysik / Introduction to Nuclear- and Particle-Physics
402-0767-00LNeutrino PhysicsW6 credits2V + 1UA. Rubbia, D. Sgalaberna
AbstractTheoretical basis and selected experiments to determine the properties of neutrinos and their interactions (mass, spin, helicity, chirality, oscillations, charge-parity violation, interactions with leptons and quarks) and implications on physics beyond the Standard Model of elementary particles as well as on Cosmology.
Learning objectiveCritically analyze and elaborate the neutrino production and detection techniques.
Derive the theory of neutrino scattering and analyze its implications in neutrino experiments.
Analyze the phenomenology of neutrino oscillations and its implication on the physics Beyond the Standard Model of particles.
Derive the main concepts of the theory of neutrino masses within and beyond the Standard Model of particles and analyze the experimental techniques related to the measurement of the neutrino masses.
Describe the role of neutrinos in Cosmology and make connections with current and future neutrino experiments.
Review the experimental configurations and analyze the challenges in searches for leptonic Charge-Parity symmetry violation and the measurement of the neutrino mass hierarchy.
Content1. Introduction to Neutrinos and Neutrino Sources;
2. Neutrino Detectors
3. Neutrino Interactions
4. Neutrino Oscillations
5. Nature of Neutrino masses
6. Neutrinos in Cosmology
7. Search for leptonic Charge Parity violation and precision measurement of the neutrino oscillation probability
LiteratureA. Rubbia, “Phenomenology of Particle Physics”, Cambridge University Press

B. Kayser, F. Gibrat-Debu and F. Perrier, The Physics of Massive Neutrinos, World Scientific Lecture Notes in Physic, Vol. 25, 1989, and newer publications.

N. Schmitz, Neutrinophysik, Teubner-Studienbücher Physik, 1997.

D.O. Caldwell, Current Aspects of Neutrino Physics, Springer.

C. Giunti & C.W. Kim, Fundamentals of Neutrino Physics and Astrophysics, Oxford.

K.Zuber, “Neutrino Physics” CRC Press 2020
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingassessed
402-0725-00LExperimental Methods and Instruments of Particle Physics Information
Special Students UZH must book the module PHY461 directly at UZH.
W6 credits3V + 1UU. Langenegger, T. Schietinger, University lecturers
AbstractPhysics and design of particle accelerators.
Basics and concepts of particle detectors.
Track- and vertex-detectors, calorimetry, particle identification.
Special applications like Cherenkov detectors, air showers, direct detection of dark matter.
Simulation methods, readout electronics, trigger and data acquisition.
Examples of key experiments.
Learning objectiveAcquire an in-depth understanding and overview of the essential elements of experimental methods in particle physics, including accelerators and experiments.
Content1. Examples of modern experiments
2. Basics: Bethe-Bloch, radiation length, nucl. interaction length, fixed-target vs. collider, principles of measurements: energy- and momentum-conservation, etc
3. Physics and layout of accelerators
4. Charged particle tracking and vertexing
5. Calorimetry
6. Particle identification
7. Analysis methods: invariant and missing mass, jet algorithms, b-tagging
8. Special detectors: extended airshower detectors and cryogenic detectors
9. MC simulations (GEANT), trigger, readout, electronics
Lecture notesSlides are handed out regularly, see http://www.physik.uzh.ch/en/teaching/PHY461/
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
402-0777-00LParticle Accelerator Physics and Modeling IW6 credits2V + 1UA. Adelmann
AbstractThis is the first of two courses, introducing particle accelerators from a theoretical point of view and covers state-of-the-art modelling techniques.
Learning objectiveYou obtain a theoretical understanding of the building blocks of particle accelerators. Modern numerical analysis tools allows you to model state-of-the-art particle accelerators. We will develop a Julia simulation tool (JuliAccel.jl) that reflects the theory from the lecture.
ContentHere is the rough plan of the topics, however the actual pace may vary relative to this plan.

- Recap of Relativistic Classical Mechanics and Electrodynamics
- Building Blocks of Particle Accelerators
- Lie Algebraic Structure of Classical Mechanics and Application to Particle Accelerators
- Symplectic Maps & Analysis of Maps
- Symplectic Particle Tracking
- Collective Effects
- Linear & Circular Accelerators
Lecture notesLecture notes
Prerequisites / NoticePhysics, Computational Science (RW) at MSc. Level
In exceptional cases students at BSc level can attend.
This lecture is also suited for PhD. students
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
402-0851-00LQCD: Theory and Experiment Information
Special Students UZH must book the module PHY561 directly at UZH.
W3 credits3GA. Gehrmann-De Ridder, R. Wallny
AbstractAn introduction to the theoretical aspects and experimental tests of QCD, with emphasis on perturbative QCD and related experiments at colliders.
Learning objectiveKnowledge acquired on basics of perturbative QCD, both of theoretical and experimental nature. Ability to perform simple calculations of perturbative QCD, as well as to understand modern publications on theoretical and experimental aspects of perturbative QCD.
ContentQCD Lagrangian and Feynman Rules
QCD running coupling
Parton model
DGLAP
Basic processes
Experimental tests at lepton and hadron colliders
Measurements of the strong coupling constant
Literature1) G. Dissertori, I. Knowles, M. Schmelling : "Quantum Chromodynamics: High Energy Experiments and Theory" (The International Series of Monographs on Physics, 115, Oxford University Press)
2) R. K. Ellis, W. J. Stirling, B. R. Webber : "QCD and Collider Physics" (Cambridge Monographs on Particle Physics, Nuclear Physics & Cosmology)"
Prerequisites / NoticeWill be given as block course, language: English.
For students of both ETH and University of Zurich.
Selection: Theoretical Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-2813-00LProgramming Techniques for Scientific Simulations I Restricted registration - show details
Students in the Master's Degree Programme in Computational Science and Engineering must enrol only if this course unit is an additional requirement.
W5 credits4GR. Käppeli
AbstractThis lecture provides an overview of programming techniques for scientific simulations. The focus is on basic and advanced 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.
Learning objectiveThe goal of the course is that students learn basic and advanced programming techniques and scientific software libraries as used and applied for scientific simulations.
402-0461-00LQuantum Information Theory
Does not take place this semester.
W8 credits3V + 1U
AbstractThe goal of this course is to introduce the concepts and methods of quantum information theory. It starts with an introduction to the mathematical theory of quantum systems and then discusses the basic information-theoretic aspects of quantum mechanics. Further topics include applications such as quantum cryptography and quantum coding theory.
Learning objectiveBy the end of the course students are able to explain the basic mathematical formalism (e.g. states, channels) and the tools (e.g. entropy, distinguishability) of quantum information theory. They are able to adapt and apply these concepts and methods to analytically solve quantum information-processing problems primarily related to communication and cryptography.
ContentMathematical formulation of quantum theory: entanglement, density operators, quantum channels and their representations. Basic tools of quantum information theory: distinguishability of states and channels, formulation as semidefinite programs, entropy and its properties.
Applications of the concepts and tools: communication of classical or quantum information over noisy channels, quantitative uncertainty relations, randomness generation, entanglement distillation, security of quantum cryptography.
Lecture notesDistributed via moodle.
LiteratureNielsen and Chuang, Quantum Information and Computation
Preskill, Lecture Notes on Quantum Computation
Wilde, Quantum Information Theory
Watrous, The Theory of Quantum Information
402-0580-00LSuperconductivityW6 credits2V + 1UV. Geshkenbein
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, thermodynamics and response to magnetic fields. Josephson effect: superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUID) and other applications.
Learning 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 breaking, flux quantization, properties of type I and II superconductors; mixed phase; microscopic BCS theory: electron-phonon mechanism, Cooper pairing, coherent state, quasiparticle spectrum, thermodynamics and response to magnetic fields; Josephson effect, superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUID)and other applications.
Lecture notesLecture notes and additional materials are available.
LiteratureM. Tinkham "Introduction to Superconductivity"
P. G. de Gennes "Superconductivity Of Metals And Alloys"
A. A. Abrikosov "Fundamentals of the Theory of Metals"
J.B. Ketterson & S.N. Song "Superconductivity"
H. Stolz "Supraleitung" (German)
K. Fossheim & A. Sudbo "Superconductivity: Physics and Applications"
Prerequisites / NoticeThe preceding attendance of the scheduled lecture courses "Introduction to Solid State Physics" and "Quantum Mechanics I" are mandatory. The lectures "Quantum Mechanics II" and "Solid State Theory" provide the most optimal conditions to follow this course.
402-0490-00LAdvanced Methods in Quantum Many-Body Theory
Does not take place this semester.
W8 credits3V + 1UE. Demler
AbstractAdvanced theoretical methods for analyzing quantum many-body systems will be reviewed. We will discuss equilibrium Green's functions, Keldysh formalism for nonequilibrium phenomena, variational approaches. Specific models that will be considered include systems with dissipation, polarons, interacting electrons, electron-phonon systems, transport in mesoscopic systems, superconductivity, cavity QED
Learning objectiveIntroduce advanced theoretical methods for analyzing quantum many-body systems including Green’s functions and variational approaches.
Prerequisites / NoticeThis class assumes familiarity with quantum mechanics, including second quantization, and condensed matter physics.
402-0809-00LIntroduction to Computational PhysicsW8 credits2V + 2UA. Adelmann
AbstractThis course offers an introduction to computer simulation methods for physics problems and their implementation on PCs and super computers. The covered topics include classical equations of motion, partial differential equations (wave equation, diffusion equation, Maxwell's equations), Monte Carlo simulations, percolation, phase transitions, and N-Body problems.
Learning objectiveStudents learn to apply the following methods: Random number generators, Determination of percolation critical exponents, numerical solution of problems from classical mechanics and electrodynamics, canonical Monte-Carlo simulations to numerically analyze magnetic systems. Students also learn how to implement their own numerical frameworks in Julia and how to use existing libraries to solve physical problems. In addition, students learn to distinguish between different numerical methods to apply them to solve a given physical problem.
ContentIntroduction to computer simulation methods for physics problems. Models from classical mechanics, electrodynamics and statistical mechanics as well as some interdisciplinary applications are used to introduce modern programming methods for numerical simulations using Julia. Furthermore, an overview of existing software libraries for numerical simulations is presented.
Lecture notesLecture notes and slides are available online and will be distributed if desired.
LiteratureLiterature recommendations and references are included in the lecture notes.
Prerequisites / NoticeLecture and exercise lessons in english, exams in German or in English
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
402-0822-13LIntroduction to IntegrabilityW6 credits2V + 1UN. Beisert
AbstractThis course gives an introduction to the theory of integrable systems, related symmetry algebras and efficients calculational methods.
Learning objectiveIntegrable systems are a special class of physical models that can be solved exactly due to an exceptionally large number of symmetries. Examples of integrable models appear in many different areas of physics including classical mechanics, condensed matter, 2d quantum field theories and lately in string- and gauge theories. They offer a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of generic phenomena in a simplified, exactly solvable setting. In this course we introduce the notion and formulation of integrability in classical and quantum mechanics. We discuss various efficient methods for constructing solutions and eigenstates in these models. Finally, we elaborate on the enhanced symmetries that underly integrable models.
Content• Classical Integrability
• Algebraic Methods for Integrability
• Classical Spin Chains
• Spectral Curves and Inverse Scattering
• Quantum Spin Chains
• Bethe Ansatz
• Classical and Quantum Algebra
Literature• V. Chari, A. Pressley, "A Guide to Quantum Groups", Cambridge University Press (1995)
• O. Babelon, D. Bernard, M. Talon, "Introduction to Classical Integrable Systems", Cambridge University Press (2003)
• N. Reshetikhin, "Lectures on the integrability of the 6-vertex model", http://arxiv.org/abs/1010.5031
• L.D. Faddeev, "How Algebraic Bethe Ansatz Works for Integrable Model", http://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/9605187
* D. Bernard, "An Introduction to Yangian Symmetries", Int. J. Mod. Phys. B7, 3517-3530 (1993), http://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/9211133
* V. E. Korepin, N. M. Bogoliubov, A. G. Izergin, "Quantum Inverse Scattering Method and Correlation Functions", Cambridge University Press (1997)
• C. Gómez, M. Ruiz-Altaba, G. Sierra, "Quantum Groups In Two-Dimensional Physics", Cambridge University Press (1996)
• L. D. Faddeev, L. A. Takhtajan, "Hamiltonian Methods in the Theory of Solitons", Springer (2007)
• Lecture of FS22: https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/course/view.php?id=16543
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesSensitivity to Diversityfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
402-0836-16LQuantum Simulations of Gauge TheoriesW6 credits2V + 1UM. Krstic Marinkovic, J. C. Pinto Barros
AbstractDivided into three parts, the course introduces various aspects of lattice quantum field theory (QFT), gauge symmetries, quantum simulators, and implementation schemes. Other than highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the lattice formulation of QFTs suitable for Monte Carlo simulations, the course discusses practical realization of quantum simulators for gauge theories.
Learning objectiveAfter acquiring the foundations on lattice formulation of gauge theories, and challenges of conventional Monte Carlo simulation approaches, the students will learn about different strategies for quantum simulation of gauge theories and their implementation on digital and analog quantum devices.
Content1. Background and Motivation
1.1 From Quantum Field Theories to Lattice field theories;
1.2 Lattice Gauge Theories - Lagrangian formulation, gauge symmetries, observables;
1.3 Monte Carlo simulations, sign problems, and complex actions.
2. Road-map for Quantum Simulation of Gauge Theories
2.1 Hamiltonian formulation, Wilson’s formulation, and the infinite Hilbert spaces;
2.2 Finite Hilbert spaces: Z(N) gauge theories. Dualizing the Ising model and relation with the toric code;
2.3 Finite Hilbert spaces: Quantum link models for Abelian gauge theories;
2.4 Finite Hilbert spaces: Quantum link models for non-Abelian gauge theories;
2.5 Exploring the physics of gauge theories - phases, dynamics, and thermalization;
2.6 Exploring methods for gauge theories - exact diagonalization, tensor networks, Monte Carlo.
3. Quantum Simulation Approaches and Platforms
3.1 Digital vs. analog quantum simulations;
3.2 Proposals for simulations of gauge theories, realization, and perspectives.
LiteratureQuantum chromodynamics on the lattice (Christof Gattringer, Christian B. Lang. Series Title: Lecture Notes in Physics.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-01850-3)
From Quantum Link Models to D-Theory: A Resource Efficient Framework for the Quantum Simulation and Computation of Gauge Theories, U. J. Wiese
402-0845-61LEffective Field Theories for Particle Physics
Special Students UZH must book the module PHY578 directly at UZH.
W6 credits2V + 1UP. Stoffer
AbstractThe focus of the course is on Effective Field Theories (EFTs) and their interplay with dispersion theory.
These topics will be discussed both in general terms and with specific phenomenological applications in the context of physics beyond the Standard Model, effective description of the weak interaction, as well as the description of non-perturbative strong interaction at low energies.
Learning objectiveThis course covers the basic concepts of effective field theories (EFTs) and dispersion theory. We will start by introducing the core concept of constructing EFTs and apply them to the low-energy description of the weak interaction and the effective description of heavy physics beyond the Standard Model.

In the next part of the course, we will discuss Chiral Perturbation Theory (ChPT), the low-energy effective theory of Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD). We will briefly discuss the application of this concept to describe a class of theories beyond the SM in which the SM Higgs arises as a composite state of a new confining sector.

The second focus of the course is on dispersion theory and its interplay with EFTs. We will discuss how to make use of the constraints from unitarity of the S-matrix and analyticity of scattering amplitudes, in order to extend the range of validity of the theoretical description compared to pure EFT methods. We will also discuss how to obtain constraints on EFT parameters from unitarity and analyticity. We will discuss the application of these methods both in the context of low-energy strong interaction and physics beyond the Standard Model.
Content- Introduction to Effective Field Theories
- Decoupling and matching
- Renormalization group resummation
- The Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT)
- Chiral Lagrangians
- Unitarity of the S-matrix
- Analyticity and dispersion relations
Prerequisites / NoticeQFT-I (mandatory) and QFT-II (highly recommended)
402-0865-70LStrongly Correlated Systems in Atomic and Condensed Matter PhysicsW8 credits3V + 1UE. Demler
AbstractThis course will review recent progress in realizing strongly correlated many-body systems with ultracold atoms. Both theory and experiments will be discussed with an emphasis on the connection between the physics of ultracold atoms and correlated electron systems. The course will explore unique features of ultracold atoms such as dynamical control of Hamiltonians and single atom resolution.
Learning objectiveThis course provides the background needed to understand current research in ultracold atoms. Lecture material is complemented by homework problems that give hands-on experience with the concepts introduced in class, as well as a final project that involves reviewing an influential paper in a relevant research area and presenting a summary in class.
ContentSubjects covered in this class include: Bose-Einstein condensation of weakly interacting atomic gases; analogue gravity with BEC; spinor condensates; noninteracting atoms in optical lattices and probes of band structure; state dependent lattices and synthetic gauge fields; Bose Hubbard mode; quantum magnetism with ultracold atoms in optical lattices; quantum noise measurements as a probe of many-body states; Feshbach resonance; fermion pairing close to Feshbach resonance; the BCS-BEC crossover; polarons in systems of bosonic and fermionic ultracold atoms; fermionic Hubbard model; realizing and probing topological states with ultracold atoms; one dimensional systems; SU(N) magnetism and Kondo physics with alkaline-earth atoms; systems with long range interactions; many body localization; superradiance and Dicke quantum phase transitions in optical cavities for bosonic and fermionic atoms.
Lecture notesLecture notes will be handed out (in English).
Prerequisites / NoticeThis course requires knowledge of MSc level Quantum Mechanics and Statistical Physics. Prior knowledge of atomic and solid state physics is useful but not necessary.
402-0870-00LIntroduction to Quantum ElectrodynamicsW6 credits2V + 1UA. Lazopoulos
AbstractThis course provides a pedagogical introduction to Quantum Electrodynamics.
Learning objectiveStudents will be introduced to the theory of Quantum Electrodynamics, and the use of Feynman diagrams to arrive at theoretical predictions for phenomena related to the interaction of light and matter. The course is designed to complement Quantum Field Theory I for those students with a special interest in theoretical elementary particle physics.
ContentThe course will cover
- an introduction to QED as the quantum theory of interactions of light and matter.
- Feynman rules for QED
- Amplitudes and cross sections for simple processes in QED
- Gauge invariance and the Ward identity
- Ultraviolet singularities and Renormalization
- Infrared singularities and their cancelation
- The Ueling potential and the Lamb shift
- Anomalous magnetic moments
Lecture notesWill be provided at the Moodle site for the course.
LiteratureWill be provided at the Moodle site for the course.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
402-0883-63LSymmetries in PhysicsW6 credits2V + 1UJ. Brödel
AbstractThe course provides a self-contained introduction to symmetry groups in physics. The relevant mathematical background (finite groups, Lie groups and algebras as well as their representations) will be explained, and the central role of symmetry groups in modern physics will be illustrated.
Learning objectiveParticipants will learn the foundations of finite groups and Lie theory within a physics context. They will understand relevant abstract mathematical concepts and constructions and will be able to apply them to problems in modern physics.
Contentsymmetries in two and three dimensions, groups and representations, finite group theory, point and space groups, structure of simple Lie algebras, finite-dimensional representations; advanced topics may include: representations of SU(N), classification of simple Lie algebras, conformal symmetry, Möbius group and symplectic groups
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
402-0886-00LQCD and Scattering Amplitudes Information
Special Students UZH must book the module PHY564 directly at UZH.
W6 credits2V + 1UA. Gehrmann-De Ridder
AbstractThe course presents the quantum field theory of the strong interaction (quantum chromodynamics, QCD) and discusses its applications to particle physics observables.
Learning objectiveThe course aims to familiarize the students with the concepts and applications of QCD and to introduce them to modern techniques for computations in QCD.
ContentContent:
* Review of non-Abelian gauge theories
* Renormalization of QCD and running coupling constant
* Jet observables in e^+e^- annihilation
* QCD at lepton-proton colliders
* Multiparticle production
* Spinor-helicity formalism
* Perturbation theory techniques: loops and phase space
Prerequisites / NoticeThe course assumes prior knowledge of the content of the quantum field theory 1+2 lectures.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
402-0897-00LIntroduction to String TheoryW6 credits2V + 1UM. Gaberdiel
AbstractString theory is an attempt to quantise gravity and unite it with the other fundamental forces of nature. It is related to numerous interesting topics and questions in quantum field theory. In this course, an introduction to the basics of string theory is provided.
Learning objectiveWithin this course, a basic understanding and overview of the concepts and notions employed in string theory shall be given. More advanced topics will be touched upon towards the end of the course briefly in order to foster further research.
Content- mechanics of point particles and extended objects
- string modes and their quantisation; higher dimensions, supersymmetry
- critical dimension and no-ghost theorem
- D-branes, T-duality
- two-dimensional conformal field theories
LiteratureB. Zwiebach, A First Course in String Theory, CUP (2004).
D. Lust, S. Theisen, Lectures on String Theory, Lecture Notes in Physics, Springer (1989).
M.B. Green, J.H. Schwarz, E. Witten, Superstring Theory I, CUP (1987).
J. Polchinski, String Theory I & II, CUP (1998).
Prerequisites / NoticeRecommended: Quantum Field Theory I (in parallel)
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Selection: Astrophysics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0352-00LAstronomical Observations and Instrumentation
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 1UH. M. Schmid, L. Harra
AbstractAstronomical techniques and observing strategies are presented with a particular emphasis on currently available professional telescopes of the European Southern Observatory.
Learning objectiveThe course shall provide a basic understanding of the potential and limitation of different types of modern astronomical observations for early career researchers. The course will present technical aspects which are important to prepare, to carry out and to calibrate different types of astronomical measurements: photometry, spectroscopy, astrometry, polarimetry and others. Many practical examples will be discussed including methods for the detection of physical samples of cosmic dust. Also scientific aspects of instrumental projects and observational programs are addressed. An opportunity to contribute to solar spacecraft operations will be available during the course.
Content1. Introduction: research projects in astronomical observations
2. Observables: electromagnetic radiation, particles
3. Optical telescopes: Opitcs, types, mechanical concepts, examples
4. Detectors: CCDs, IR detectors, basic data reduction steps
5. Photometry: signal extraction, calibration, faint sources, etc.
6. Spectroscopy: spectrographs, calibration, spectral features
7. Introduction to solar space instrumentation
8. Space observations of cosmic dust: introduction, remote sensing, in situ instruments, sample return, calibration, data analysis and practical examples
9. Speckles and adaptive optics: atmosphere, AO-systems
10. Polarimetry: measuring principles
11. Interferometry
Lecture notesNotes will be distributed.
LiteratureAstrophysical Techniques, C.R. Kitchin, 2009 (5th edition), CRC Press
Astronomical Observations, Gordon Walker, 1987, Cambridge University Press (a bit outdated)
402-0355-00LPlanet Formation Restricted registration - show details W4 credits2VJ. Szulágyi
AbstractThis course reviews the formation processes of terrestrial- and gaseous planets, and their moons. It provides a basic understanding on how our Solar System came to be, and how other planetary systems form, as well as how/when planets & moons can be habitable places for life.
Learning objectiveOverview the state of the art planet- and moon formation models and identify open questions in the field. Understanding the formation process of planetary systems, and the formation of habitable worlds.
Content1) Planet types
2) The Solar System planets
3) Extrasolar Planets
4) The protoplanetary disk where planets are forming. The initial conditions for planet formation.
5) The formation of the building blocks of planets (so-called “planetesimals”)
6) Terrestrial Planet formation
7) Formation models of giant planets
8) Formation of moons
9) Evolution of planetary systems, orbital evolution of planets, resonances, planet-disk interactions
10) Origin of life, habitability, astrobiology
LiteratureAstrophysics of Planet Formation
Armitage, Philip J. ; Second edition – 2020

Link
Prerequisites / NoticeNo prerequisites.
Max. 20 participants.
402-0368-07LLecture Series: Space Research and ExplorationW1 credit2VS. P. Quanz
AbstractLecture Series about selected topics of space research and exploration consisting of individual talks given by different leading experts from academia and industry.
Learning objectiveAttending students will
- experience the interdisciplinarity of space research and exploration spanning physics, engineering, geosciences, biology and more
- get familiar with the Swiss space research and industry landscape
- improve their report writing skills by reflecting on one of the talks
- enhance their communication skills by broadening their research horizon
- have the opportunity for direct learning by posing questions to experts
ContentThe field of space research and exploration is intrinsically interdisciplinary. Cutting edge space activities are dominated by an interplay between the scientifically desirable and the technologically possible. The ‘Lecture Series: Space Research and Exploration’ aims to shed light on key questions engaged by leading scientists and engineers today. It consists of weekly lectures, given by different speakers with vast experience in their respective field (e.g., Human Spaceflight, System Engineering of Spacecraft, Space Life Sciences, Space-based astrophysics). Subsequent to the talk, the student will have the opportunity to deepen their understanding by asking questions to the presenter in a moderated Q&A.

Confirmed speakers will be announced by the start of the semester (see lecture from last year for previous speakers).
CompetenciesCompetencies
Concepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesProject Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
402-0368-11LEarth - A (Unique?) Habitable PlanetW6 credits2V + 1US. P. Quanz
AbstractWhile thousands of extrasolar planets are known to orbit stars other than the Sun, Earth is - until now - the only planet known to be habitable. This lecture takes an interdisciplinary view on Earth as a habitable planet, how it formed, evolved, allowed life to flourish, and how its future might look like. Would we be able to identify another Earth-like planet amongst the population of exoplanets?
Learning objectiveAttending students will
• understand Earth place in the cosmos
• learn tools to discern the history of Earth and other planets
• explore the origin and co-evolution of Earth and life
• put Earth in context with extrasolar planets
ContentThis lecture focuses on our home planet - Earth - from an interdisciplinary perspective. As the search for habitable - and potentially even inhabited - extrasolar planets is one of the most dynamic research fields in modern astrophysics, understanding what makes a planet habitable is a topic of increasing importance; and a highly interdisciplinary topic. In broad brushes, this lecture will discuss the building blocks of planetary systems and their formation, how we can learn about the history of Earth and other planets, what major epochs we can identify over the course of Earth’s 4.5 billion year history, when life arose on Earth and what impact it had on Earth’s evolution, how the future Earth might look like, and - last but certainly not least - how we can search for an Earth-like planet in our cosmic neighbourhood and what our chances are to be successful.
402-0371-62LCosmological Probes Information W6 credits2V + 1UA. Refregier
AbstractOur understanding of the universe has made great progress recently thanks to the combination of several cosmological probes such as the cosmic microwave background, galaxy clustering, gravitational lensing, and supernovae. After a review of cosmology, this course will cover the physics of these different probes along with their application, combination and use to measure cosmological parameters.
Learning objectiveThe goal of this course is to provide an understanding of the physics, application and combination of cosmological probes, and highlight current research topics.
Prerequisites / NoticeCredits or current enrollment in Astrophysics I and II is recommended but not required.
402-0398-00LCosmic Dust in the Solar SystemW3 credits1V + 1UV. J. Sterken
AbstractThis course provides students with a basic understanding of the science of cosmic dust in the solar system and how to measure it with space-based satellites and instrumentation. The lectures include the physical processes of both interplanetary and interstellar dust, trajectory simulations (i.e. orbital dynamics), in situ measurement techniques, and mission design aspects.
Learning objectiveCosmic dust is an important building block for planets and towards life. This course provides students with a basic understanding of the science of cosmic dust in the solar system, and how to measure it with space-based satellites and instrumentation. The lectures include the physical processes of both interplanetary and interstellar dust, trajectory simulations (i.e. orbital dynamics), in situ measurement techniques, and mission design aspects.
At the end of the course, students are able to classify the different types of dust in the solar system, and to relate them to their sources, sinks, their importance for planetary science and astronomy, physical processes, and appropriate measurement techniques. They will be able to simulate dust trajectories and use them to gain insight in how orbital dynamics and the space environment shape them. Students can design a basic concept of a space mission for dust measurements. The skills taught in this course will be useful to students in a broader way for planetary sciences.
Content1. Introduction, course outline, historical notes, interstellar and interplanetary dust, dust in the solar system, sources, sinks, importance for science
2. Dust instrumentation and observables: ground-based, space-based and sample return techniques, calibration of dust instruments in the lab
3. Dust dynamics: recap basic aspects of orbital dynamics, the SPICE toolkit, types of orbits
4. Dust dynamics: space environment, dust processes and implications (e.g. in the early solar system), dust charging, consequences for dynamics, comparison with spacecraft dynamics
5. Dust models and dust data analysis: types of models and their limitations, data analysis
6. Mission design aspects: orbits, mission design limitations, advantages, disadvantages, instrument accommodation, example missions
Lecture notesSlides will be provided before each lecture.
LiteratureInterplanetary dust (freely available online)
https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-642-56428-4

Cosmic dust from the laboratory to the stars (ETH Library)
https://link.springer.com/book/9789402420098
Prerequisites / NoticeThe exercise solutions are performed in the Julia programming language.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesDecision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
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.
Learning 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: http://ihp-lx2.ethz.ch/AstroTeilchen/
LiteratureSee lecture home page: http://ihp-lx2.ethz.ch/AstroTeilchen/
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
Selection: Further Electives
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0737-00LEnergy and Sustainability in the 21st Century (Part I)W6 credits2V + 1UP. Morf
AbstractPart I of this course covers the topics relevant to energy in this two-semester course. The importance of energy to life and our modern culture is explored and placed in the perspective of the ongoing energy transition in the context of necessary and urgent decarbonization efforts. How much energy do we need and how can it be provided in a way that enables a sustainable existence?
Learning objectiveWhy is energy important for life and our society?
How did energy use change over time? Which effects did these changes have on the environment?
What are the physical basics of energy technologies?
When, why and how did technology and science of energy come together?
What are the limits and benefits of all the various energy technologies?
How can different energy technologies be compared?
Can we understand the changes in the current energy systems?
How will the energy systems of the future look like?
How fast can we and should we enforce the current energy transition?
Which could be the overall guide lines for a working energy system of the future?
Content1. Introduction to Energy – what is it all about
2. Energy and making use of it – a short history of energy use and an overview on energy technologies
3. Coal, oil and natural gas – fossil fuels
4. Renewables I: Biomass, Hydropower, and Wind Energy – from traditional use to the modern concepts
5. Renewables II: Geothermal, Tidal power and Solar Technologies – new renewables to lead the change
6. Nuclear power, radioactivity and ultimate storage – the quest for a safe technology
7. Breeding and Nuclear Fusion – can it work at all?
8. Energy Storage – the need to increase capacity and for new technologies
9. Climate Change and Decarbonisation of the Energy Mix – how much time do we have?
10. Energy Efficiency, Buildings and Mobility – new Technologies, Rebounds and new Ways of life?
11. Energy Systems – how everything can play together
12. Life Cycle Assessment of Energy Technologies – problems and possibilities
13. Economics of Energy, Learning Curves, Technology Assessments and Innovation.
14. The Actual Energy Transition and Decarbonisation – How is your 2040, 2050?
LiteratureThe Physics of Energy, R.L. Jaffe, W. Taylor, 2018
Clean Disruption of Energy and Transportation, T. Seba 2014
Energy and Civilization: A History, V. Smil, 2018
Renewable Energy – Without the Hot Air, D.J.c. Mackay 2009
Prerequisites / NoticeBasics of Physics applied to Energy and Energy Technology.
Investigation on current problems (and possible solutions)
related to the energy system and the environmental interactions.
Training of scientific and multi-disciplinary methods, approaches and their limits in the exercises and discussions.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityassessed
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
402-0247-00LElectronics for Physicists I (Analogue) Restricted registration - show details W4 credits2V + 2PG. Bison, W. Erdmann
AbstractPassive components, linear networks, transmission lines, simulation of analog circuits, semiconductor components: diodes, bipolar and field-effect transistors, basic amplifier circuits, small signal analysis, differential amplifiers, noise, operational amplifiers, feedback and stability, oscillators, ADCs and DACs, introduction to CMOS technology
Learning objectiveThe lecture provides the basic knowledge necessary to understand, design and simulate analog electronic circuits. In the exercises, the concepts can be experienced in a hands-on manner. Every student has the opportunity to go through all steps of an electronic design cycle. Those include designing schematics, generating a printed circuit board layout, and the realization of a soldered prototype.
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, 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 / Noticeno prior knowledge in electronics is required
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesProblem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
151-0409-00LMultiphysics Modeling and Simulation Information W4 credits2V + 2UC. I. Roman
AbstractThis class introduces both theoretical and practical aspects related to the modeling and simulation of multiphysics systems. Students will learn how to set up multiphysics models systematically, and therefore reduce time-consuming trial-and-error. Comsol Multiphyics will be utilized to apply the concepts learned during the lectures to solve exercises.
Learning objectiveAs information technology continues its fast-paced evolution, solid-state devices and systems increase in complexity. Engineers and scientists are thus increasingly facing the need to model and simulate their problems numerically where analytic textbook solution cease to exist. Moreover, boundaries between traditional disciplines are harder to maintain, as a proper description of the system might involve phenomena from several domains. Examples include—but not limited to—mechatronics which relies on mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering, and transducers (sensors and actuators) which are by definition devices that convert signals from one physical domain to another. Simulation platforms such as Comsol Multiphysics have truly opened the way to easy multi-domain numerical simulation, offering tools that cover all operations from geometry definition, to meshing, to physics and boundary conditions setting to simulation and result post-processing and analysis in a unified, domain-independent fashion. However, this high degree of freedom has it price, as inexperienced users may face cryptic error messages, incomprehensible or even incorrect results. It is the mission of this course to show how to properly set up a problem by exposing some of the most common misconceptions and pitfalls in multiphysics modeling. Good practices will be taught that should simplify the modeling process and increase the likelihood of correct results. Examples will mainly come from the fields of mechanics (continuum solid mechanics), electromagnetism (electrostatics and conductive media), heat transfer (conductive not convective) and combinations of these domains.
Content- Recap of ordinary and partial differential equations
- The Finite Element Method (and the Method of Lines)
- Numerical solvers
- Geometry simplification and discretization
- Continuous and discrete symmetries
- Approximate and simplified formulations; domains of applicability
- Boundary conditions and constraints
- Solution-appropriate discretization; hp-refinement, local/global adaptive meshing
- Ramping of nonlinearities and couplings
- Coupling and segregation of multiphysics
Lecture notesLecture handouts will be posted online.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityassessed
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsassessed
Self-awareness and Self-reflection assessed
Self-direction and Self-management assessed
Selection: Neuroinformatics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
227-1033-00LNeuromorphic Engineering I Restricted registration - show details
Registration in this class requires the permission of the instructors. Class size will be limited to available lab spots.
Preference is given to students that require this class as part of their major.

Information for UZH students:
Enrolment to this course unit only possible at ETH. No enrolment to module INI404 at UZH.
Please mind the ETH enrolment deadlines for UZH students: Link
W6 credits2V + 3UT. Delbrück, S.‑C. Liu, M. Payvand
AbstractThis course covers analog circuits with emphasis on neuromorphic engineering: MOS transistors in CMOS technology, static circuits, dynamic circuits, systems (silicon neuron, silicon retina, silicon cochlea) with an introduction to multi-chip systems. The lectures are accompanied by weekly laboratory sessions.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding of the characteristics of neuromorphic circuit elements.
ContentNeuromorphic circuits are inspired by the organizing principles of biological neural circuits. Their computational primitives are based on physics of semiconductor devices. Neuromorphic architectures often rely on collective computation in parallel networks. Adaptation, learning and memory are implemented locally within the individual computational elements. Transistors are often operated in weak inversion (below threshold), where they exhibit exponential I-V characteristics and low currents. These properties lead to the feasibility of high-density, low-power implementations of functions that are computationally intensive in other paradigms. Application domains of neuromorphic circuits include silicon retinas and cochleas for machine vision and audition, real-time emulations of networks of biological neurons, and the development of autonomous robotic systems. This course covers devices in CMOS technology (MOS transistor below and above threshold, floating-gate MOS transistor, phototransducers), static circuits (differential pair, current mirror, transconductance amplifiers, etc.), dynamic circuits (linear and nonlinear filters, adaptive circuits), systems (silicon neuron, silicon retina and cochlea) and an introduction to multi-chip systems that communicate events analogous to spikes. The lectures are accompanied by weekly laboratory sessions on the characterization of neuromorphic circuits, from elementary devices to systems.
LiteratureS.-C. Liu et al.: Analog VLSI Circuits and Principles; various publications.
Prerequisites / NoticeParticular: The course is highly recommended for those who intend to take the spring semester course 'Neuromorphic Engineering II', that teaches the conception, simulation, and physical layout of such circuits with chip design tools.

Prerequisites: Background in basics of semiconductor physics helpful, but not required.
227-1037-00LIntroduction to Neuroinformatics Information W6 credits2V + 1U + 1AV. Mante, M. Cook, B. Grewe, G. Indiveri, D. Kiper, W. von der Behrens
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.
Learning 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, simple neural architectures of feedforward and recurrent networks are discussed in the context of co-ordination, control, and integration of sensory and motor information.

Connections to computer science and artificial intelligence are discussed, but the main focus of the course is on establishing the biological basis of computations in neurons.
Selection: Medical Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0341-00LMedical Physics IW6 credits2V + 1UP. Manser
AbstractIntroduction to the fundamentals of medical radiation physics. Functional chain due to radiation exposure from the primary physical effect to the radiobiological and medically manifest secondary effects. Dosimetric concepts of radiation protection in medicine. Mode of action of radiation sources used in medicine and its illustration by means of Monte Carlo simulations.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding the functional chain from primary physical effects of ionizing radiation to clinical radiation effects. Dealing with dose as a quantitative measure of medical exposure. Getting familiar with methods to generate ionizing radiation in medicine and learn how they are applied for medical purposes. Eventually, the lecture aims to show the students that medical physics is a fascinating and evolving discipline where physics can directly be used for the benefits of patients and the society.
ContentThe lecture is covering the basic principles of ionzing radiation and its physical and biological effects. The physical interactions of photons as well as of charged particles will be reviewed and their consequences for medical applications will be discussed. The concept of Monte Carlo simulation will be introduced in the excercises and will help the student to understand the characteristics of ionizing radiation in simple and complex situations. Fundamentals in dosimetry will be provided in order to understand the physical and biological effects of ionizing radiation. Deterministic as well as stochastic effects will be discussed and fundamental knowledge about radiation protection will be provided. In the second part of the lecture series, we will cover the generation of ionizing radiation. By this means, the x-ray tube, the clinical linear accelarator, and different radioactive sources in radiology, radiotherapy and nuclear medicine will be addressed. Applications in radiolgoy, nuclear medicine and radiotherapy will be described with a special focus on the physics underlying these applications.
Lecture notesA script will be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticeFor students of the MAS in Medical Physics (Specialization A) the performance assessment is offered at the earliest in the second year of the studies.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
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.
Learning 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. Recently, ellipsometry has been introduced to on-line monitor film thickness, and roughness with sub-nanometer precision. These characterisation techniques are vital for optimising the preparation of medical implants.

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.

X rays are more and more often used to characterise the human tissues down to the nanometer level. The combination of highly intense beams only some micrometers in diameter with scanning enables spatially resolved measurements and the determination of tissue's anisotropies of biopsies.
465-0970-00LImage Guided Medical InterventionsW6 credits2V + 1UG. Fattori
AbstractComputer assistance and robotics have entered many fields of interventional medicine, shaping the way high-precision procedures are performed today. In this lecture series, we will present the methods and technologies used in image-guided radiotherapy, from the use of medical images to model the patient's anatomy to intraoperative navigation and registration.
Learning objectiveUpon completion of the course, students are able to explain the methods and technologies for image guidance and stereotactic radiotherapy. In particular, they are able to design the calibration of in-room imaging solutions and other navigation systems to verify and correct patient position in high-precision radiotherapy. In addition, they are familiar with common tools used in medical image processing research.
ContentBasics of imaging and image processing for IGRT:
* 3D/4D imaging.
* Segmentation (thresholding, region growing and similar).
* Filtering (morphological filters and similar fundamentals).
* Modelling and rendering of volumes and surfaces.
* Image registration.
* Conventions for position and orientation representation.

Technologies and methods for localisation and navigation:
* Reference systems mapping.
* Kinematic of a robotic treatment couch.
* Optical tracking systems, calibration and use.
* Registration of points and surfaces.
* In-room imaging and geometry calibration of X-ray systems.
* 2D/3D and 3D/3D registration.
* Organ motion.

Technologies and methods for on-line treatment verification
* In-room imaging for verification of proton therapy treatment

If you like playing with medical imaging and computer vision tools, you could be interested in this course.
Selection: Environmental Physics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
701-1239-00LAerosols I: Physical and Chemical PrinciplesW4 credits2V + 1UM. Gysel Beer, D. Bell, E. Weingartner
AbstractAerosols I deals with basic physical and chemical properties of aerosol particles. The importance of aerosols in the atmosphere and in other fields is discussed.
Learning objectivePhysical and chemical principles:
The students...
- know the processes and physical laws of aerosol dynamics.
- understand the thermodynamics of phase equilibria and chemical equilibria.
- know the photo-chemical formation of particulate matter from inorganic and organic precursor gases.

Experimental methods:
The students...
- know the most important chemical and physical measurement instruments.
- understand the underlying chemistry and physics.

Environmental impacts:
The students...
- know the major sources of atmospheric aerosols, their chemical composition and key physical properties.
- know the most important climate impacts of atmospheric aerosols.
are aware of the health impacts of atmospheric aerosols.
Lecture notesmateriel is distributed during the lecture
Literature- Kulkarni, P., Baron, P. A., and Willeke, K.: Aerosol Measurement - Principles, Techniques, and Applications. Wiley, Hoboken, New Jersey, 2011.
- Hinds, W. C.: Aerosol Technology: Properties, Behavior, and Measurement of Airborne Particles. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, 1999.
- Colbeck I. (ed.) Physical and Chemical Properties of Aerosols, Blackie Academic & Professional, London, 1998.
- Seinfeld, J. H. and Pandis, S. N.: Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics: From Air Pollution to Climate Change. Hoboken, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2006
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingfostered
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
701-0475-00LAtmospheric Physics Information W3 credits2GU. Lohmann
AbstractThis course covers the basics of atmospheric physics, which consist of: cloud and precipitation formation especially prediction of showers and longer-lasting convective storms and optical phenomena
Learning objectiveStudents are able
- to explain the mechanisms of thunderstorm formation using knowledge of thermodynamics and cloud microphysics.
- to interpret precipitation radar images
- to evaluate the significance of clouds and aerosol particles for artificial weather modification.

In the course "Atmospheric Physics", the competencies of process understanding, system understanding and data analysis & interpretation are taught, applied and examined. Measurement methods are taught as well.
ContentThe course starts with introducing selected concepts of thermodynamics for atmospheric processes: The students learn the concept of the thermodynamic equilibrium and derive the Clausius-Clayperon equation from the first law of thermodynamics. This equation is central for the phase transitions in clouds.

Students also learn to classify radiosondes with the help the thermodynamic charts (tephigrams) and to identify cloud base, cloud top, available convective energy in them. Atmospheric mixing processes are introduced for fog formation. The concept of the air parcel is used to understand convection.

Aerosol particles are introduced in terms of their physical properties and their role in cloud formation based on Köhler theory. Thereafter cloud microphysical processes including ice nucleation are discussed.

With these basics, the different forms of precipitation formation (convective vs. stratiform) is discussed as well as the formation and different stages of severe convective storms.

The concepts are applied to understand and judge the validity of different proposed articifical weather modification ideas.
Lecture notesPowerpoint slides and chapters from the textbook will be made available on moodle: https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/course/view.php?id=20400
LiteratureLohmann, U., Lüönd, F. and Mahrt, F., An Introduction to Clouds:
From the Microscale to Climate, Cambridge Univ. Press, 391 pp., 2016.

An electronic version of this book can be obtained via the ETH library.

pdf-files of the revised book will be provided on moodle on a chapter-by-chapter basis.
Prerequisites / NoticeWe offer a lab tour, in which we demonstrate how some of the processes discussed in the lectures are measured with instruments.

There is a additional tutorial right after each lecture to give you the chance to ask further questions and discuss the exercises. The participation is recommended but voluntary.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Personal CompetenciesCritical Thinkingassessed
Self-direction and Self-management assessed
701-1221-00LDynamics of Large-Scale Atmospheric Flow Information W4 credits2V + 1UH. Wernli, J. Riboldi
AbstractThis lecture course is about the fundamental aspects of the dynamics of extratropical weather systems (quasi-geostropic dynamics, potential vorticity, Rossby waves, baroclinic instability). The fundamental concepts are formally introduced, quantitatively applied and illustrated with examples from the real atmosphere. Exercises (quantitative and qualitative) form an essential part of the course.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding of dynamic processes of large-scale atmospheric flow and their mathematical-physical formulation.
ContentDynamical Meteorology is concerned with the dynamical processes of the
earth's atmosphere. The fundamental equations of motion in the atmosphere will be discussed along with the dynamics and interactions of synoptic system - i.e. the low and high pressure systems that determine our weather. The motion of such systems can be understood in terms of quasi-geostrophic theory. The lecture course provides a derivation of the mathematical basis along with some interpretations and applications of the concept.
Lecture notesDynamics of large-scale atmospheric flow
Literature- Holton J.R., An introduction to Dynamic Meteorogy. Academic Press, fourth edition 2004,
- Pichler H., Dynamik der Atmosphäre, Bibliographisches Institut, 456 pp. 1997
Prerequisites / NoticePhysics I, II, Environmental Fluid Dynamics
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
651-4053-05LBoundary Layer MeteorologyW4 credits3GM. Rotach, P. Calanca
AbstractThe Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) constitutes the lower part of the atmosphere, is characterized by turbulent mixing and ensures the exchange of energy, mass and momentum between the Earth’s surface and the atmosphere. The course provides the theoretical background for understanding the structure and dynamics of the PBL. Idealized concepts are reviewed and contrasted to real world applications.
Learning objectiveStudents are able to:
- Name the basic approaches needed to describe planetary boundary layer flows and associated turbulent exchange processes.
- Apply these concepts to answer comprehension questions and solve simple problems related to the structure and dynamics of the PBL.
- Independently judge the applicability of learned concepts and tools to real-world situations.
Content- Introduction
- PBL structure and stability
- Turbulence and turbulent transport
- Scaling and similarity theory
- Spectral characteristics
- Conservation equations in a turbulent flow
- Closure problem and closure assumptions
- Rough surfaces and the roughness sublayer
- Complex terrain
Lecture notesavailable (i.e. in English)
Literature- Stull, R.B.: 1988, "An Introduction to Boundary Layer Meteorology", (Kluwer), 666 pp.
- Panofsky, H. A. and Dutton, J.A.: 1984, "Atmospheric Turbulence, Models and Methods for Engineering Applications", (J. Wiley), 397 pp.
- Kaimal JC and Finningan JJ: 1994, Atmospheric Boundary Layer Flows, Oxford University Press, 289 pp.
- Wyngaard JC: 2010, Turbulence in the Atmosphere, Cambridge University Press, 393pp.
Prerequisites / NoticeUmwelt-Fluiddynamik (701-0479-00L) (environment fluid dynamics) or equivalent and basic knowledge in atmospheric science
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Selection: Mathematics
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-3531-00LDifferential Geometry I Information
At most one of the three course units (Bachelor Core Courses)
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. In this case, you cannot change the category assignment by yourself in myStudies but must take contact with the Study Administration Office (www.math.ethz.ch/studiensekretariat) after having received the credits.
W9 credits4V + 1UT. Ilmanen
AbstractIntroduction to differential manifolds and differential geometry.

Introduce the language, tools, and basic results of differentiable manifolds, tensors, Riemannian geometry, and related geometric structures. Relate geometric intuition to formulas involving curvature, derivatives and tensors.
Learning objectiveLearn to compute, describe, prove, and solve problems in the language of differential geometry.
ContentSubmanifolds of R^n, immersions, submersions, and embeddings, Sard's Theorem, abstract differentiable manifolds, charts, vector fields and flows, vector bundles, tensor fields, covariant derivatives, parallel transport, Riemannian metrics, geodesics, Riemann curvature tensor. Complete manifolds, Hopf-Rinow theorem. Many examples including curves, surfaces, hyperbolic space, S^3, the unit quaternions, the Gauss-Bonnet theorem, etc.
LiteratureJohn M. Lee: Introduction to Smooth Manifolds
John M. Lee: Introduction to Riemannian Manifolds

This following books were inherited from before. The only one I know is DoCarmo.

- Manfredo P. do Carmo: Differential Geometry of Curves and Surfaces
- S. Montiel, A. Ros: Curves and Surfaces
- S. Kobayashi: Differential Geometry of Curves and Surfaces
- Wolfgang Kühnel: Differentialgeometrie. Kurven-Flächen-Mannigfaltigkeiten
- Dennis Barden & Charles Thomas: An Introduction to Differential Manifolds
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesSensitivity to Diversityassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
401-3461-00LFunctional Analysis I Information
At most one of the three course units (Bachelor Core Courses)
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. In this case, you cannot change the category assignment by yourself in myStudies but must take contact with the Study Administration Office (www.math.ethz.ch/studiensekretariat) after having received the credits.
W9 credits4V + 1UM. Burger
AbstractBaire category; Banach and Hilbert spaces, bounded linear operators; basic 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.
Learning objectiveAcquire a good degree of fluency with the fundamental concepts and tools belonging to the realm of linear Functional Analysis, with special emphasis on the geometric structure of Banach and Hilbert spaces, and on the basic properties of linear maps.
LiteratureRecommended references include the following:

Michael Struwe: "Funktionalanalysis I" (Skript available at https://people.math.ethz.ch/~struwe/Skripten/FA-I-2019.pdf)

Haim Brezis: "Functional analysis, Sobolev spaces and partial differential equations". Springer, 2011.

Peter D. Lax: "Functional analysis". Pure and Applied Mathematics (New York). Wiley-Interscience [John Wiley & Sons], New York, 2002.

Elias M. Stein and Rami Shakarchi: "Functional analysis" (volume 4 of Princeton Lectures in Analysis). Princeton University Press, Princeton, NJ, 2011.

Manfred Einsiedler and Thomas Ward: "Functional Analysis, Spectral Theory, and Applications", Graduate Text in Mathematics 276. Springer, 2017.

Walter Rudin: "Functional analysis". International Series in Pure and Applied Mathematics. McGraw-Hill, Inc., New York, second edition, 1991.
Prerequisites / NoticeSolid background on the content of all Mathematics courses of the first two years of the undergraduate curriculum at ETH.Most importantly: fluency with point set topology and measure theory, in part. Lebesgue integration and L^p spaces.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
401-3601-00LProbability Theory Information
At most one of the three course units (Bachelor Core Courses)
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. In this case, you cannot change the category assignment by yourself in myStudies but must take contact with the Study Administration Office (www.math.ethz.ch/studiensekretariat) after having received the credits.
Moreover, 401-3601-00L Probability Theory can only be recognised for the Master Programme in Mathematics if neither 401-3642-00L Brownian Motion and Stochastic Calculus nor 401-3602-00L Applied Stochastic Processes has been recognised for the Bachelor Programme.
W9 credits4V + 1UI. Kortchemski
AbstractBasics of probability theory and the theory of stochastic processes in discrete time
Learning objectiveThis course presents the basics of probability theory and the theory of stochastic processes in discrete time. The following topics are planned:
measure theory formalism and probability theory, Dynkin's lemma and independence, convergence of series of independent random variables, law of large numbers, conditional expectation, martingale convergence theorems, uniform integrability, optional stopping theorem for martingales, the Bienaymé-Galton-Watson process and its R-number, convergence in distribution and the central limit theorem.
ContentThis course presents the basics of probability theory and the theory of stochastic processes in discrete time. The following topics are planned:
measure theory formalism and probability theory, Dynkin's lemma and independence, convergence of series of independent random variables, law of large numbers, conditional expectation, martingale convergence theorems, uniform integrability, optional stopping theorem for martingales, the Bienaymé-Galton-Watson process and its R-number, convergence in distribution and the central limit theorem.
Lecture noteswill be available in electronic form.
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
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
401-3621-00LFundamentals of Mathematical Statistics Information W9 credits4V + 1US. van de Geer
AbstractIn this course we study the basics of theoretical statistics. The course includes methods for designing estimators, confidence
intervals and tests, and various ways to evaluate the accuracy of
estimators, confidence intervals and tests. We consider optimality criteria such as admissibility and minimaxity, as well as
Bayesian criteria. We will also present the asymptotic point of view.
Learning objectiveThe aim of this course
is to gain insight into the main statistical ideas and concepts.
The course considers classical low-dimensional models, with pointers towards today's highly complex models.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Selection: Electives at the University of Zurich
University of Zurich lecturers explicitly recommended the following courses also to physics students at ETH Zurich.
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
401-7851-00LTheoretical Astrophysics (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: AST512

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
W10 credits4V + 2UUniversity lecturers
AbstractThis course covers the foundations of astrophysical fluid dynamics, the Boltzmann equation, equilibrium systems and their stability, the structure of stars, astrophysical turbulence, accretion disks and their stability, the foundations of radiative transfer, collisionless systems, the structure and stability of dark matter halos and stellar galactic disks.
Learning objective
ContentThis course covers the foundations of astrophysical fluid dynamics, the theory of collisions and the Boltzmann equation, the notion of equilibrium systems and their stability, the structure of stars, the theory of astrophysical turbulence, the theory of accretion disks and their stability, the foundations of astrophysical radiative transfer, the theory of collisionless system, the structure and stability of dark matter halos and stellar galactic disks.
LiteratureCourse Materials:
1- The Physics of Astrophysics, Volume 1: Radiation by Frank H. Shu
2- The Physics of Astrophysics, Volume 2: Gas Dynamics by Frank H. Shu
3- Foundations of radiation hydrodynamics, Dimitri Mihalas and Barbara Weibel-Mihalas
4- Radiative Processes in Astrophysics, George B. Rybicki and Alan P. Lightman
5- Galactic Dynamics, James Binney and Scott Tremaine
Prerequisites / NoticeThis is a full black board ad chalk experience for students with a strong background in mathematics and physics.

Prerequisites:
Introduction to Astrophysics
Mathematical Methods for the Physicist
Quantum Mechanics
(All preferred but not obligatory)

Prior Knowledge:
Mechanics
Quantum Mechanics and atomic physics
Thermodynamics
Fluid Dynamics
Electrodynamics
401-7855-00LComputational Astrophysics (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: AST245

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
W6 credits2VL. M. Mayer
Abstract
Learning objectiveAcquire knowledge of main methodologies for computer-based models of astrophysical systems,the physical equations behind them, and train such knowledge with simple examples of computer programmes
Content1. Integration of ODE, Hamiltonians and Symplectic integration techniques, time adaptivity, time reversibility
2. Large-N gravity calculation, collisionless N-body systems and their simulation
3. Fast Fourier Transform and spectral methods in general
4. Eulerian Hydrodynamics: Upwinding, Riemann solvers, Limiters
5. Lagrangian Hydrodynamics: The SPH method
6. Resolution and instabilities in Hydrodynamics
7. Initial Conditions: Cosmological Simulations and Astrophysical Disks
8. Physical Approximations and Methods for Radiative Transfer in Astrophysics
LiteratureGalactic Dynamics (Binney & Tremaine, Princeton University Press),
Computer Simulation using Particles (Hockney & Eastwood CRC press),
Targeted journal reviews on computational methods for astrophysical fluids (SPH, AMR, moving mesh)
Prerequisites / NoticeSome knowledge of UNIX, scripting languages (see www.physik.uzh.ch/lectures/informatik/python/ as an example), some prior experience programming, knowledge of C, C++ beneficial
402-6394-00LAdvanced Topics of Theoretical Cosmology (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: AST802

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
W4 credits1VUniversity lecturers
AbstractFollowing the core course Physical Cosmology (formerly theoretical cosmology), we study more advanced topics in theoretical cosmology. The lectures are given at the University of Zurich from 29 August 2022 until 9 September 2022 (two weeks) two hours everyday. No final exam.
Learning objective
ContentThe topics in the course are as follows
- spherical collapse model, Press-Schechter formalism, applications
- Standard Newtonian and Lagrangian Perturbation Theory
- galaxy bias
- nonlinear relativistic dynamics: ADM formalism
- inflationary models, effective field theory
- modification of gravity
- weak gravitational lensing, CMB anisotropies
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: 402-0394-00L Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology
402-0831-67LAdvanced Topics in General Relativity and Gravitational Waves (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH.
UZH Module Code: PHY529

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
W6 credits2V + 1UP. Jetzer
AbstractThe aim of this lecture is to discuss some advanced topics in general relativity, which are useful to understand the present research activities in the field. A list of possible topics is given below. A basic knowledge of general relativity is required (ideally having followed the lecture on General Relativity). The course is particularly suited for master and PhD students.
Learning objectiveIs to be able to read and understand the original literature and the presently published papers in the field of the discussed advanced topics. This might be also useful in view of doing afterwards a master thesis in the field of general relativity.
ContentPossible content:
- General relativistic stellar structure equations (Neutron stars)
- Tetrad formalism
- Spinors in GR
- Klein-Gordon & Dirac eqs. in GR
- Thermodynamics of black holes and Hawking radiation
- Topics in gravitational waves: GW generation by PN sources, GW from elliptic, hyperbolic binaries
- Tests of the equivalence principle
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
402-0810-70LAdvanced Quantum Algorithms (University of Zurich)
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: PHY582

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
W6 credits2V + 1UG. Mazzola
AbstractThe course treats selected families of quantum algorithms, currently the best candidates to achieve a practical quantum advantage over classical computation in physics, chemistry, optimization, sampling and machine learning.
Starting from the basics, quantum algorithms are introduced and their feasibility to solve real-world problems in science and industry is critically discussed.
Learning objectiveThe course aims to provide a balanced outlook of this transformative technology, discussing strengths and possible limitations of all discussed algorithms, especially in the context of concrete today and future hardware implementation.
After the course, students will have a clear understanding of the state- of-the-art of this field (i.e., the applications and algorithms amenable to quantum speedup, types of hardware, and quantum software).
The course content is devised to provide first-hand experience with quantum algorithms and stimulate critical thinking. The course will be instrumental for the student's career development in quantum technology and computational science, in academia or industry.
ContentCourse content:
-) Quantum gates and circuits basics
-) Quantum annealing
-) Hamiltonian simulations (Trotter, LCU, circuit decompositions)
-) Mapping fermionic, bosonic operators to qubits
-) Quantum phase estimation and applications
-) Variational quantum algorithms (VQE, QAOA)
-) Algorithms for sampling and search (Amplitude amplification, estimation, quantum walks, quantum enhanced Markov chains)
-) Selected Quantum Machine learning algorithms
-) Prospects for quantum advantage
Lecture notesLecture notes covering in detail all the course content will be provided.
Literature-) My lecture notes and references therein which are open-access will be more than enough to follow.

-) For an introduction to quantum computing and information it could be useful to read specific chapters of Nielsen and Chuang book.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe course is designed to be self-contained concerning the basics: ie. the definition of quantum gates and circuits.
Prior knowledge in quantum information science is beneficial but not required.
Knowledge of basic statistical mechanics and quantum mechanics is required, specifically: linear algebra, spin operators, many-body wavefunctions, Hamiltonians in second quantisation formalism.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsassessed
General Electives
Students may choose General Electives from the entire course programme of ETH Zurich - with the following restrictions: courses that belong to the first or second year of a Bachelor curriculum at ETH Zurich as well as courses from GESS "Science in Perspective" are not eligible here.
The following courses are explicitly recommended to physics students by their lecturers. (Courses in this list may be assigned to the category "General Electives" directly in myStudies. For the category assignment of other eligible courses keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration (www.phys.ethz.ch/studies/study-administration.html) after having received the credits.)
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
151-0209-00LRenewable Energy Technologies Information W4 credits3GA. Bardow
AbstractRenewable energy technologies: solar PV, solar thermal, biomass, wind, geothermal, hydro, waste-to-energy. Focus is on the engineering aspects.
Learning objectiveStudents learn the potential and limitations of renewable energy technologies and their contribution towards sustainable energy utilization.
Lecture notesLecture Notes containing copies of the presented slides.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: strong background on the fundamentals of engineering thermodynamics, equivalent to the material taught in the courses Thermodynamics I, II, and III of D-MAVT.
151-0163-00LNuclear Energy ConversionW4 credits2V + 1UA. Manera
AbstractPhyiscal fundamentals of the fission reaction and the sustainable chain reaction, thermal design, construction, function and operation of nuclear reactors and power plants, light water reactors and other reactor types, converion and breeding
Learning objectiveStudents get an overview on energy conversion in nuclear power plants, on construction and function of the most important types of nuclear reactors with special emphasis to light water reactors. They obtain the mathematical/physical basis for quantitative assessments concerning most relevant aspects of design, dynamic behaviour as well as material and energy flows.
ContentNuclear physics of fission and chain reaction. Themodynamics of nuclear reactors. Design of the rector core. Introduction into the dynamic behaviour of nuclear reactors. Overview on types of nuclear reactors, difference between thermal reactors and fast breaders. Construction and operation of nuclear power plants with pressurized and boiling water reactors, role and function of the most important safety systems, special features of the energy conversion. Development tendencies of rector technology.
Lecture notesHand-outs will be distributed. Additional literature and information on the website of the lab: Link
LiteratureS. Glasston & A. Sesonke: Nuclear Reactor Engineering, Reactor System Engineering, Ed. 4, Vol. 2., Springer-Science+Business Media, B.V.

R. L. Murray: Nuclear Energy (Sixth Edition), An Introduction to the Concepts, Systems, and Applications of Nuclear Processes, Elsevier
151-0103-00LFluid Dynamics IIW3 credits2V + 1UP. Jenny
AbstractTwo-dimensional irrotational (potential) flows: stream function and potential, singularity method, unsteady flow, aerodynamic concepts.
Vorticity dynamics: vorticity and circulation, vorticity equation, vortex theorems of Helmholtz and Kelvin.
Compressible flows: isentropic flow along stream tube, normal and oblique shocks, Laval nozzle, Prandtl-Meyer expansion, viscous effects.
Learning objectiveExpand basic knowledge of fluid dynamics.
Concepts, phenomena and quantitative description of irrotational (potential), rotational, and one-dimensional compressible flows.
ContentTwo-dimensional irrotational (potential) flows: stream function and potential, complex notation, singularity method, unsteady flow, aerodynamic concepts.
Vorticity dynamics: vorticity and circulation, vorticity equation, vortex theorems of Helmholtz and Kelvin.
Compressible flows: isentropic flow along stream tube, normal and oblique shocks, Laval nozzle, Prandtl-Meyer expansion, viscous effects.
Lecture notesLecture notes are available (in German).
(See also info on literature below.)
LiteratureRelevant chapters (corresponding to lecture notes) from the textbook

P.K. Kundu, I.M. Cohen, D.R. Dowling: Fluid Mechanics, Academic Press, 5th ed., 2011 (includes a free copy of the DVD "Multimedia Fluid Mechanics")

P.K. Kundu, I.M. Cohen, D.R. Dowling: Fluid Mechanics, Academic Press, 6th ed., 2015 (does NOT include a free copy of the DVD "Multimedia Fluid Mechanics")
Prerequisites / NoticeAnalysis I/II, Knowledge of Fluid Dynamics I, thermodynamics of ideal gas
151-0532-00LNonlinear Dynamics and Chaos IW4 credits2V + 2UG. Haller
AbstractBasic facts about nonlinear systems; stability and near-equilibrium dynamics; bifurcations; dynamical systems on the plane; non-autonomous dynamical systems; chaotic dynamics.
Learning objectiveThis course is intended for Masters and Ph.D. students in engineering sciences, physics and applied mathematics who are interested in the behavior of nonlinear dynamical systems. It offers an introduction to the qualitative study of nonlinear physical phenomena modeled by differential equations or discrete maps. We discuss applications in classical mechanics, electrical engineering, fluid mechanics, and biology. A more advanced Part II of this class is offered every other year.
Content(1) Basic facts about nonlinear systems: Existence, uniqueness, and dependence on initial data.

(2) Near equilibrium dynamics: Linear and Lyapunov stability

(3) Bifurcations of equilibria: Center manifolds, normal forms, and elementary bifurcations

(4) Nonlinear dynamical systems on the plane: Phase plane techniques, limit sets, and limit cycles.

(5) Time-dependent dynamical systems: Floquet theory, Poincare maps, averaging methods, resonance
Lecture notesThe class lecture notes will be posted electronically after each lecture. Students should not rely on these but prepare their own notes during the lecture.
Prerequisites / Notice- Prerequisites: Analysis, linear algebra and a basic course in differential equations.

- Exam: two-hour written exam in English.

- Homework: A homework assignment will be due roughly every other week. Hints to solutions will be posted after the homework due dates.
151-0620-00LEmbedded MEMS LabW5 credits3PC. Hierold, A. Güntner, M. Haluska
AbstractPractical course: Students are introduced to the process steps required for the fabrication of MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System) and carry out the fabrication and testing steps in the clean rooms by themselves. Additionally, they learn the requirements for working in clean rooms. Processing and characterization will be documented and analyzed in a final report.
Learning objectiveStudents learn the individual process steps that are required to make a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical System). Students carry out the process steps themselves in laboratories and clean rooms. Furthermore, participants become familiar with the special requirements (cleanliness, safety, operation of equipment and handling hazardous chemicals) of working in the clean rooms and laboratories. The entire production, processing, and characterization of the MEMS is documented and evaluated in a final report.
ContentWith guidance from a tutor, the individual silicon microsystem process steps that are required for the fabrication of an accelerometer are carried out:
- Photolithography, dry etching, wet etching, sacrificial layer etching, various cleaning procedures
- Packaging and electrical connection of a MEMS device
- Testing and characterization of the MEMS device
- Written documentation and evaluation of the entire production, processing and characterization
Lecture notesA document containing theory, background and practical course content is distributed at the Introductory lecture day of the course.
LiteratureThe document provides sufficient information for the participants to successfully participate in the course.
Prerequisites / NoticeParticipating students are required to attend all scheduled lectures and meetings of the course.

Participating students are required to provide proof that they have personal accident insurance prior to the start of the laboratory portion of the course.

For safety and efficiency reasons the number of participating students is limited. We regret to restrict access to this course by the following rules:

Priority 1: master students of the master's program in "Micro and Nanosystems"

Priority 2: master students of the master's program in "Mechanical Engineering" with a specialization in Microsystems and Nanoscale Engineering (MAVT-tutors Profs Daraio, Dual, Hierold, Koumoutsakos, Nelson, Norris, Poulikakos, Pratsinis, Stemmer), who attended the bachelor course "151-0621-00L Microsystems Technology" successfully.

Priority 3: master students, who attended the bachelor course "151-0621-00L Microsystems Technology" successfully.

Priority 4: all other students (PhD, bachelor, master) with a background in silicon or microsystems process technology.

If there are more students in one of these priority groups than places available, we will decide by (in following order) best achieved grade from 151-0621-00L Microsystems Technology, registration to this practicum at previous semester, and by drawing lots.
Students will be notified at the first lecture of the course (introductory lecture) as to whether they are able to participate.

The course is offered in autumn and spring semester.
151-0213-00LFluid Dynamics with the Lattice Boltzmann Method
Does not take place this semester.
W4 credits3GI. Karlin
AbstractThe course provides an introduction to theoretical foundations and practical usage of the Lattice Boltzmann Method for fluid dynamics simulations.
Learning objectiveMethods like molecular dynamics, DSMC, lattice Boltzmann etc are being increasingly used by engineers all over and these methods require knowledge of kinetic theory and statistical mechanics which are traditionally not taught at engineering departments. The goal of this course is to give an introduction to ideas of kinetic theory and non-equilibrium thermodynamics with a focus on developing simulation algorithms and their realizations.

During the course, students will be able to develop a lattice Boltzmann code on their own. Practical issues about implementation and performance on parallel machines will be demonstrated hands on.

Central element of the course is the completion of a lattice Boltzmann code (using the framework specifically designed for this course).

The course will also include a review of topics of current interest in various fields of fluid dynamics, such as multiphase flows, reactive flows, microflows among others.

Optionally, we offer an opportunity to complete a project of student's choice as an alternative to the oral exam. Samples of projects completed by previous students will be made available.
ContentThe course builds upon three parts:
I Elementary kinetic theory and lattice Boltzmann simulations introduced on simple examples.
II Theoretical basis of statistical mechanics and kinetic equations.
III Lattice Boltzmann method for real-world applications.

The content of the course includes:

1. Background: Elements of statistical mechanics and kinetic theory:
Particle's distribution function, Liouville equation, entropy, ensembles; Kinetic theory: Boltzmann equation for rarefied gas, H-theorem, hydrodynamic limit and derivation of Navier-Stokes equations, Chapman-Enskog method, Grad method, boundary conditions; mean-field interactions, Vlasov equation;
Kinetic models: BGK model, generalized BGK model for mixtures, chemical reactions and other fluids.

2. Basics of the Lattice Boltzmann Method and Simulations:
Minimal kinetic models: lattice Boltzmann method for single-component fluid, discretization of velocity space, time-space discretization, boundary conditions, forcing, thermal models, mixtures.

3. Hands on:
Development of the basic lattice Boltzmann code and its validation on standard benchmarks (Taylor-Green vortex, lid-driven cavity flow etc).

4. Practical issues of LBM for fluid dynamics simulations:
Lattice Boltzmann simulations of turbulent flows;
numerical stability and accuracy.

5. Microflow:
Rarefaction effects in moderately dilute gases; Boundary conditions, exact solutions to Couette and Poiseuille flows; micro-channel simulations.

6. Advanced lattice Boltzmann methods:
Entropic lattice Boltzmann scheme, subgrid simulations at high Reynolds numbers; Boundary conditions for complex geometries.

7. Introduction to LB models beyond hydrodynamics:
Relativistic fluid dynamics; flows with phase transitions.
Lecture notesLecture notes on the theoretical parts of the course will be made available.
Selected original and review papers are provided for some of the lectures on advanced topics.
Handouts and basic code framework for implementation of the lattice Boltzmann models will be provided.
Prerequisites / NoticeThe course addresses mainly graduate students (MSc/Ph D) but BSc students can also attend.
151-0621-00LMicrosystems I: Process Technology and IntegrationW6 credits3V + 2UM. Haluska, C. Hierold
AbstractStudents are introduced to the fundamentals of semiconductors, the basics of micromachining and silicon process technology and will learn about the fabrication of microsystems and -devices by a sequence of defined processing steps (process flow).
Learning objectiveStudents are introduced to the basics of micromachining and silicon process technology and will understand the fabrication of microsystem devices by the combination of unit process steps ( = process flow).
Content- Introduction to microsystems technology (MST) and micro electro mechanical systems (MEMS)
- Basic silicon technologies: Thermal oxidation, photolithography and etching, diffusion and ion implantation, thin film deposition.
- Specific microsystems technologies: Bulk and surface micromachining, dry and wet etching, isotropic and anisotropic etching, beam and membrane formation, wafer bonding, thin film mechanical properties.
Application of selected technologies will be demonstrated on case studies.
Lecture notesHandouts (available online)
Literature- S.M. Sze: Semiconductor Devices, Physics and Technology
- W. Menz, J. Mohr, O.Paul: Microsystem Technology
- Hong Xiao: Introduction to Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology
- M. J. Madou: Fundamentals of Microfabrication and Nanotechnology, 3rd ed.
- T. M. Adams, R. A. Layton: Introductory MEMS, Fabrication and Applications
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Physics I and II
227-0385-10LBiomedical ImagingW6 credits5GS. Kozerke, K. P. Prüssmann
AbstractIntroduction to diagnostic medical imaging based on electromagnetic and acoustic fields including X-ray planar and tomographic imaging, radio-tracer based nuclear imaging techniques, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound-based procedures.
Learning objectiveUpon completion of the course students are able to:

• Explain the physical and mathematical foundations of diagnostic medical imaging systems
• Characterize system performance based on signal-to-noise ratio, contrast-to-noise ratio and transfer function
• Design a basic diagnostic imaging system chain including data acquisition and data reconstruction
• Identify advantages and limitations of different imaging methods in relation to medical diagnostic applications
Content• Introduction (intro, overview, history)
• Signal theory and processing (foundations, transforms, filtering, signal-to-noise ratio)
• X-rays (production, tissue interaction, contrast, modular transfer function)
• X-rays (resolution, detection, digital subtraction angiography, Radon transform)
• X-rays (filtered back-projection, spiral computed tomography, image quality, dose)
• Nuclear imaging (radioactive tracer, collimation, point spread function, SPECT/PET)
• Nuclear imaging (detection principles, image reconstruction, kinetic modelling)
• Magnetic Resonance (magnetic moment, spin transitions, excitation, relaxation, detection)
• Magnetic Resonance (plane wave encoding, Fourier reconstruction, pulse sequences)
• Magnetic Resonance (contrast mechanisms, gradient- and spin-echo, applications)
• Ultrasound (mechanical wave generation, propagation in tissue, reflection, transmission)
• Ultrasound (spatial and temporal resolution, phased arrays)
• Ultrasound (Doppler shift, implementations, applications)
• Summary, example exam questions
Lecture notesLecture notes and handouts
LiteratureWebb A, Smith N.B. Introduction to Medical Imaging: Physics, Engineering and Clinical Applications; Cambridge University Press 2011
Prerequisites / NoticeAnalysis, Linear algebra, Physics, Basics of signal theory, Basic skills in Matlab/Python programming
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Cooperation and Teamworkassessed
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
227-0386-00LBiomedical Engineering Information W4 credits3GJ. Vörös, S. J. Ferguson, S. Kozerke, M. P. Wolf, M. Zenobi-Wong
AbstractIntroduction into selected topics of biomedical engineering as well as their relationship with physics and physiology. The focus is on learning the basic vocabulary of biomedical engineering and getting familiar with concepts that govern common medical instruments and the most important organs from an engineering point of view.
Learning objectiveIntroduction into selected topics of biomedical engineering as well as their relationship with physics and physiology. The course provides an overview of the various topics of the different tracks of the biomedical engineering master course and helps orienting the students in selecting their specialized classes and project locations. It also serves as an introduction to the field for students of the ITET, MAVT, HEST and other bachelor programs.
In addition, the most recent achievements and trends of the field of biomedical engineering are also outlined.
ContentHistory of BME and the role of biomedical engineers. Ethical issues related to BME.
Biomedical sensors both wearable and also biochemical sensors.
Bioelectronics: Nernst equation, Donnan equilibrium, equivalent circuits of biological membranes and bioelectronic devices.
Bioinformatics: genomic and proteomic tools, databases and basic calculations.
Equations describing basic reactions and enzyme kinetics.
Medical optics: Optical components and systems used in hospitals.
Basic concepts of tissue engineering and organ printing.
Biomaterials and their medical applications.
Function of the heart and the circulatory system.
Transport and exchange of substances in the human body, compartment modeling.
The respiratory system.
Bioimaging.
Orthopedic biomechanics.
Lectures (2h), discussion of practical exercises (1h) and homework exercises.
Lecture notesIntroduction to Biomedical Engineering
by Enderle, Banchard, and Bronzino

AND

moodle page of the course
Prerequisites / NoticeNo specific requirements, BUT
ITET, MAVT, PHYS students will have to learn a lot of new words related to biochemistry, biology and medicine, while
HEST and BIOL students will have to grasp basic engineering concepts (circuits, equations, etc.).
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
227-1047-00LConsciousness: From Philosophy to Neuroscience (University of Zurich) Information
No enrolment to this course at ETH Zurich. Book the corresponding module directly at UZH as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: INI410

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
W3 credits2VD. Kiper
AbstractThis seminar reviews the philosophical and phenomenological as well as the neurobiological aspects of consciousness. The subjective features of consciousness are explored, and modern research into its neural substrate, particularly in the visual domain, is explained. Emphasis is placed on students developing their own thinking through a discussion-centered course structure.
Learning objectiveThe course's goal is to give an overview of the contemporary state of consciousness research, with emphasis on the contributions brought by modern cognitive neuroscience. We aim to clarify concepts, explain their philosophical and scientific backgrounds, and to present experimental protocols that shed light on on a variety of consciousness related issues.
ContentThe course includes discussions of scientific as well as philosophical articles. We review current schools of thought, models of consciousness, and proposals for the neural correlate of consciousness (NCC).
Lecture notesNone
LiteratureWe display articles pertaining to the issues we cover in the class on the course's webpage.
Prerequisites / NoticeSince we are all experts on consciousness, we expect active participation and discussions!
227-0939-00LCell BiophysicsW6 credits4GT. Zambelli
AbstractApplying two fundamental principles of thermodynamics (entropy maximization and Gibbs energy minimization), an analytical model is derived for a variety of biological phenomena at the molecular as well as cellular level, and critically compared with the corresponding experimental data in the literature.
Learning objectiveEngineering uses the laws of physics to predict the behavior of a system. Biological systems are so diverse and complex prompting the question whether we can apply unifying concepts of theoretical physics coping with the multiplicity of life’s mechanisms.

Objective of this course is to show that biological phenomena despite their variety can be analytically described using only two principles from statistical mechanics: maximization of the entropy and minimization of the Gibbs free energy.

Starting point of the course is the probability theory, which enables to derive step-by-step the two pillars of thermodynamics from the perspective of statistical mechanics: the maximization of entropy according to the Boltzmann’s law as well as the minimization of the Gibbs free energy. Then, an assortment of biological phenomena at the molecular and cellular level (e.g. cytoskeletal polymerization, action potential, photosynthesis, gene regulation, morphogen patterning) will be examined at the light of these two principles with the aim to derive a quantitative expression describing their behavior. Each analytical model is finally validated by comparing it with the corresponding experimental results from the literature.

By the end of the course, students will also learn to critically evaluate the concepts of making an assumption and making an approximation.
Content• Basics of theory of probability
• Boltzmann's law
• Entropy maximization and Gibbs free energy minimization

• Ligand-receptor: two-state systems and the MWC model
• Random walks, diffusion, crowding
• Electrostatics for salty solutions
• Elasticity: fibers and membranes
• Molecular motors
• Action potential: Hodgkin-Huxley model
• Photosynthesis and vision
• Gene regulation
• Development: Turing patterns

Theory and corresponding exercises are merged together during the classes.
Lecture notesNo lecture notes because the two proposed textbooks are more than exhaustive!

An extra hour (Mon 17.00 o'clock - 18.00) will be proposed via ZOOM to solve together the exercises of the previous week.

!!!!! I am using OneNote. All lectures and exercises will be broadcast via ZOOM (the link of the recordings will be available in Moodle on Fri, 22 Dec after the last lesson) !!!!!
Literature• (Statistical Mechanics) K. Dill, S. Bromberg, "Molecular Driving Forces", 2nd Edition, Garland Science, 2010.

• (Biophysics) R. Phillips, J. Kondev, J. Theriot, H. Garcia, "Physical Biology of the Cell", 2nd Edition, Garland Science, 2012.
Prerequisites / NoticeParticipants need a good command of
• differentiation and integration of a function with one or more variables (basics of Analysis),
• Newton's and Coulomb's laws (basics of Mechanics and Electrostatics).

Notions of vectors in 2D and 3D are beneficial.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityassessed
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityassessed
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsassessed
Self-awareness and Self-reflection assessed
Self-direction and Self-management assessed
227-0655-00LNonlinear Optics
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 2UJ. Leuthold
AbstractNonlinear Optics deals with the interaction of light with matter. I.e. the response of insulators, metals, semiconductors or metamaterials to light and the mathematical framework (classical and quantum mechanical) to describe the phenomena. It is the goal to understand phenomena such as the refractive index, the electro-optic effect, rectification, harmonic generation, FWM, soliton propagation,...
Learning objectiveThe important nonlinear optical phenomena are understood and can be classified. The effects can be described mathematical by means of the susceptibility. Particpants will be able to desing and invent novel photonic, plasmonic or quantum devices.
ContentChapter 1: The Wave Equations in Nonlinear Optics
Chapter 2: Nonlinear Effects - An Overview
Chapter 3: The Nonlinear Optical Susceptibility - Classical and Quantummechanical Derivations
Chapter 4: Second Harmonic Generation
Chapter 5: The Electro-Optic Effect and the Electro-Optic Modulator
Chapter 6: Acousto-Optic Effect
Chapter 7: Nonlinear Effects of Third Order
Chapter 8: Nonlinear Effects in Media with Gain
LiteratureLecture notes are distributed. For students enrolled in the course, additional information, lecture notes and exercises can be found on moodle (https://moodle-app2.let.ethz.ch/).
Prerequisites / NoticeFundamentals of Electromagnetic Fields (Maxwell Equations) & Bachelor Lectures on Physics
227-0423-00LNeural Network Theory Information W4 credits2V + 1UH. Bölcskei
AbstractThe class focuses on fundamental mathematical aspects of neural networks with an emphasis on deep networks: Universal approximation theorems, capacity of separating surfaces, generalization, fundamental limits of deep neural network learning, VC dimension.
Learning objectiveAfter attending this lecture, participating in the exercise sessions, and working on the homework problem sets, students will have acquired a working knowledge of the mathematical foundations of neural networks.
Content1. Universal approximation with single- and multi-layer networks

2. Introduction to approximation theory: Fundamental limits on compressibility of signal classes, Kolmogorov epsilon-entropy of signal classes, non-linear approximation theory

3. Fundamental limits of deep neural network learning

4. Geometry of decision surfaces

5. Separating capacity of nonlinear decision surfaces

6. Vapnik-Chervonenkis (VC) dimension

7. VC dimension of neural networks

8. Generalization error in neural network learning
Lecture notesDetailed lecture notes are available on the course web page
https://www.mins.ee.ethz.ch/teaching/nnt/
Prerequisites / NoticeThis course is aimed at students with a strong mathematical background in general, and in linear algebra, analysis, and probability theory in particular.
227-0653-00LQuantum Measurements and Optomechanics
Quantum Measurements and Optomechanics
W4 credits2V + 1UM. Frimmer, M. Rossi
AbstractThe measurement process is at the heart of both science and engineering. The limitations of measurement precision is ultimately dictated by the laws of quantum mechanics. This course provides the knowledge necessary to understand current state-of-the-art quantum measurement systems operating at their fundamental limits with a particular focus on optomechanical implementations.
Learning objectiveThe goal of this course is to understand both the standard and the ultimate quantum limits of measurement precision.
ContentThe lecture starts with summarizing the relevant fundamentals of the treatment of noisy signals. We familiarize ourselves with the concept of measurement imprecision in light-based measurement systems. To this end, we consider the process of photodetection and discuss the statistical fluctuations arising from the quantization of the electromagnetic field into photons. We exemplify our insights at hand of concrete examples, such as homodyne and heterodyne photodetection. Furthermore, we focus on the process of measurement backaction, the inevitable result of the interaction of the probe with the system under investigation. We discuss the “standard quantum limit” as it arises from the balance of measurement imprecision and backaction, before turning to approaches to overcome it and reach the fundamental “Heisenberg limit”. The course emphasizes the connection between the taught concepts and current state-of-the-art research carried out in the field of optomechanics. Exercises serve to consolidate our understanding and insight.
Prerequisites / Notice1. Electrodynamics
2. Physics 1,2
3. Introduction to quantum mechanics
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
227-0965-00LMicro and Nano-Tomography of Biological TissuesW4 credits3GM. Stampanoni, F. Marone Welford
AbstractThe lecture introduces the physical and technical know-how of X-ray tomographic microscopy. Several X-ray imaging techniques (absorption-, phase- and darkfield contrast) will be discussed and their use in daily research, in particular biology, is presented. The course discusses the aspects of quantitative evaluation of tomographic data sets like segmentation, morphometry and statistics.
Learning objectiveIntroduction to the basic concepts of X-ray tomographic imaging, image analysis and data quantification at the micro and nano scale with particular emphasis on biological applications
ContentSynchrotron-based X-ray micro- and nano-tomography is today a powerful technique for non-destructive, high-resolution investigations of a broad range of materials. The high-brilliance and high-coherence of third generation synchrotron radiation facilities allow quantitative, three-dimensional imaging at the micro and nanometer scale and extend the traditional absorption imaging technique to edge-enhanced and phase-sensitive measurements, which are particularly suited for investigating biological samples.

The lecture includes a general introduction to the principles of tomographic imaging from image formation to image reconstruction. It provides the physical and engineering basics to understand how imaging beamlines at synchrotron facilities work, looks into the recently developed phase contrast methods, and explores the first applications of X-ray nano-tomographic experiments.

The course finally provides the necessary background to understand the quantitative evaluation of tomographic data, from basic image analysis to complex morphometrical computations and 3D visualization, keeping the focus on biomedical applications.
Lecture notesAvailable online
LiteratureWill be indicated during the lecture.
227-0157-00LSemiconductor Devices: Physical Bases and Simulation Information W4 credits3GA. Schenk, C. I. Roman
AbstractThe course addresses the physical principles of modern semiconductor devices and the foundations of their modeling and numerical simulation. Necessary basic knowledge on quantum-mechanics, semiconductor physics and device physics is provided. Computer simulations of the most important devices and of interesting physical effects supplement the lectures.
Learning objectiveThe course aims at the understanding of the principle physics of modern semiconductor devices, of the foundations in the physical modeling of transport and its numerical simulation. During the course also basic knowledge on quantum-mechanics, semiconductor physics and device physics is provided.
ContentThe main topics are: transport models for semiconductor devices (quantum transport, Boltzmann equation, drift-diffusion model, hydrodynamic model), physical characterization of silicon (intrinsic properties, scattering processes), mobility of cold and hot carriers, recombination (Shockley-Read-Hall statistics, Auger recombination), impact ionization, metal-semiconductor contact, metal-insulator-semiconductor structure, and heterojunctions.
The exercises are focussed on the theory and the basic understanding of the operation of special devices, as single-electron transistor, resonant tunneling diode, pn-diode, bipolar transistor, MOSFET, and laser. Numerical simulations of such devices are performed with an advanced simulation package (Sentaurus-Synopsys). This enables to understand the physical effects by means of computer experiments.
Lecture notesThe script (in book style) can be downloaded from: https://iis-students.ee.ethz.ch/lectures/
LiteratureThe script (in book style) is sufficient. Further reading will be recommended in the lecture.
Prerequisites / NoticeQualifications: Physics I+II, Semiconductor devices (4. semester).
227-0663-00LNano-Optics Information
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits2V + 2UM. Frimmer
AbstractNano-Optics is the study of light-matter interaction at the sub-wavelength scale. It is an flourishing field of fundamental and applied research enabled by the rapid advance of nanotechnology. Nano-optics embraces topics such as plasmonics, optical antennas, optical trapping and manipulation, and high/super-resolution imaging and spectroscopy.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding concepts of light localization and light-matter interactions on the sub-wavelength scale.
ContentWe start with the angular spectrum representation of fields to understand the classical resolution limit. We continue with the theory of strongly focused light, the point spread function, and resolution criteria of conventional microscopy, before turning to super-resolution techniques, based on near- and far-fields. We introduce the local density of states and approaches to control spontaneous emission rates in inhomogeneous environments, including optical antennas. Finally, we touch upon optical forces and their applications in optical tweezers.
Prerequisites / Notice- Electromagnetic fields and waves (or equivalent)
- Physics I+II
227-0147-10LVLSI 3: Full-Custom Digital Circuit Design Information W6 credits2V + 3UC. Studer, O. Castañeda Fernández
AbstractThis third course in our VLSI series is concerned with full-custom digital integrated circuits. The goals include learning the design of digital circuits on the schematic, layout, gate, and register-transfer levels. The use of state-of-the-art CAD software (Cadence Virtuoso) in order to simulate, optimize, and characterize digital circuits is another important topic of this course.
Learning objectiveAt the end of this course, you will
• understand the design of the main building blocks of state-of-the-art digital integrated circuits
• be able to design and optimize digital integrated circuits on the schematic, layout, and gate levels
• be able to use standard industry software (Cadence Virtuoso) for drawing, simulating, and characterizing digital circuits
• understand the performance trade-offs between delay, area, and power consumption
ContentThe third VLSI course begins with the basics of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) field-effect transistors (FETs) and moves up the stack towards logic gates and increasingly complex digital circuit structures. The topics of this course include:
• Nanometer MOSFETs
• Static and dynamic behavior of complementary MOS (CMOS) inverters
• CMOS gate design, sizing, and timing
• Full-custom standard-cell design
• Wire models and parasitics
• Latch and flip-flop circuits
• Gate-level timing analysis and optimization
• Static and dynamic power consumption; low-power techniques
• Alternative logic styles (dynamic logic, pass-transistor logic, etc.)
• Arithmetic and logic circuits
• Fixed-point and floating-point arithmetic
• Synchronous and asynchronous design principles
• Memory circuits (ROM, SRAM, and DRAM)
• In- and near-memory processing architectures
• Full-custom accelerator circuits for machine learning
The exercises are concerned with schematic entry, layout, and simulation of digital integrated circuits using a disciplined standard-cell-based approach with Cadence Virtuoso.
LiteratureN. H. E. Weste and D. M Harris, CMOS VLSI Design: A Circuits and Systems Perspective (4th Ed.), Addison-Wesley
Prerequisites / NoticeVLSI 3 can be taken in parallel with “VLSI 1: HDL-based design for FPGAs” and is designed to complement the topics of this course. Basic analog circuit knowledge is required.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
227-0301-00LOptical Communication FundamentalsW6 credits2V + 1U + 1PJ. Leuthold
AbstractThe path of an analog signal in the transmitter to the digital world in a communication link and back to the analog world at the receiver is discussed. The lecture covers the fundamentals of all important optical and optoelectronic components in a fiber communication system. This includes the transmitter, the fiber channel and the receiver with the electronic digital signal processing elements.
Learning objectiveAn in-depth understanding on how information is transmitted from source to destination. Also the mathematical framework to describe the important elements will be passed on. Students attending the lecture will further get engaged in critical discussion on societal, economical and environmental aspects related to the on-going exponential growth in the field of communications.
Content* Chapter 1: Introduction: Analog/Digital conversion, The communication channel, Shannon channel capacity, Capacity requirements.

* Chapter 2: The Transmitter: Components of a transmitter, Lasers, The spectrum of a signal, Optical modulators, Modulation formats.

* Chapter 3: The Optical Fiber Channel: Geometrical optics, The wave equations in a fiber, Fiber modes, Fiber propagation, Fiber losses, Nonlinear effects in a fiber.

* Chapter 4: The Receiver: Photodiodes, Receiver noise, Detector schemes (direct detection, coherent detection), Bit-error ratios and error estimations.

* Chapter 5: Digital Signal Processing Techniques: Digital signal processing in a coherent receiver, Error detection teqchniques, Error correction coding.

* Chapter 6: Pulse Shaping and Multiplexing Techniques: WDM/FDM, TDM, OFDM, Nyquist Multiplexing, OCDMA.

* Chapter 7: Optical Amplifiers : Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers, Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifiers, Raman Amplifiers.
Lecture notesLecture notes are handed out.
LiteratureGovind P. Agrawal; "Fiber-Optic Communication Systems"; Wiley, 2010
Prerequisites / NoticeFundamentals of Electromagnetic Fields & Bachelor Lectures on Physics.
227-0621-00LEmerging Memory TechnologiesW3 credits1V + 1UM. Yarema
AbstractThis course focuses on the current state and prospects of memory technologies, emerging beyond the silicon transistor era. We explore resistive PCM and RRAM, magnetic MRAM and ferroelectric FRAM memories, covering physics, device aspects and the latest research in the field. Through interactive lectures and laboratory sessions, students gain up-to-date knowledge and compare emerging memory techs.
Learning objectiveIn this course, students will learn about the leading contenders for post-silicon storage-class and main memory technologies. Decades of research have yielded several efficient memory device working principles, including phase-change of the structure (PCM), materials conversion (OxRAM), ion diffusion (CBRAM), magnetic properties (STT-MRAM, MTJ), and ferroelectricity (FRAM, FeFET). Currently, these memory technologies are transitioning from research to industry, and are predicted to have at least niche applications in the ever-growing hardware market. Some technologies, such as PCM, may even eventually surpass silicon-based flash memory, providing better performance and unique features.

Students will have the opportunity to compare emerging memory technologies with state-of-the-art SSD Flash, DRAM, and SRAM, as well as evaluate their potential. Through critical thinking discussions, students will acquire important skills for assessing the strengths and limitations of these emerging technologies.
ContentThe course is organized as a series of lectures, focusing on selected memory technologies. This class also includes practical laboratory sessions for the PCM research topics. Students will spend 2 hours per week in the class or laboratory and additional 2-3 hours per week to prepare for the exam.
LiteratureLecture notes will be made available on the website.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Decision-makingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
227-0116-00LVLSI 1: HDL Based Design for FPGAs Information W6 credits5GF. K. Gürkaynak, L. Benini
AbstractThis first course in a series that extends over three consecutive terms is concerned with tailoring algorithms and with devising high performance hardware architectures for their implementation as ASIC or with FPGAs. The focus is on front end design using HDLs and automatic synthesis for producing industrial-quality circuits.
Learning objectiveUnderstand Very-Large-Scale Integrated Circuits (VLSI chips), Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC), and Field-Programmable Gate-Arrays (FPGA). Know their organization and be able to identify suitable application areas. Become fluent in front-end design from architectural conception to gate-level netlists. How to model digital circuits with SystemVerilog. How to ensure they behave as expected with the aid of simulation, testbenches, and assertions. How to take advantage of automatic synthesis tools to produce industrial-quality VLSI and FPGA circuits. Gain practical experience with the hardware description language SystemVerilog and with industrial Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools.
ContentThis course is concerned with system-level issues of VLSI design and FPGA implementations. Topics include:
- Overview on design methodologies and fabrication depths.
- Levels of abstraction for circuit modeling.
- Organization and configuration of commercial field-programmable components.
- FPGA design flows.
- Dedicated and general purpose architectures compared.
- How to obtain an architecture for a given processing algorithm.
- Meeting throughput, area, and power goals by way of architectural transformations.
- Hardware Description Languages (HDL) and the underlying concepts.
- SystemVerilog
- Register Transfer Level (RTL) synthesis and its limitations.
- Building blocks of digital VLSI circuits.
- Functional verification techniques and their limitations.
- Modular and largely reusable testbenches.
- Assertion-based verification.
- Synchronous versus asynchronous circuits.
- The case for synchronous circuits.
- Periodic events and the Anceau diagram.
- Case studies, ASICs compared to microprocessors, DSPs, and FPGAs.

During the exercises, students learn how to model FPGAs with SystemVerilog. They write testbenches for simulation purposes and synthesize gate-level netlists for FPGAs. Commercial EDA software by leading vendors is being used throughout.
Lecture notesTextbook and all further documents in English.
LiteratureH. Kaeslin: "Top-Down Digital VLSI Design, from Architectures to Gate-Level Circuits and FPGAs", Elsevier, 2014, ISBN 9780128007303.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites:
Basics of digital circuits.

Examination:
In written form following the course semester (spring term). Problems are given in English, answers will be accepted in either English oder German.

Further details:
https://iis-students.ee.ethz.ch/lectures/vlsi-i/
252-0834-00LInformation Systems for Engineers Information W4 credits2V + 1UG. Fourny
AbstractThis course provides the basics of relational databases from the perspective of the user.

We will discover why tables are so incredibly powerful to express relations, learn the SQL query language, and how to make the most of it. The course also covers support for data cubes (analytics).
Learning objectiveDo you want to be able to query your own data productively and efficiently in your future semester projects, bachelor's thesis, master thesis, or PhD thesis? Are you looking for something beyond the Python+Pandas hype? This courses teaches you how to do so as well as the dos and don'ts.

This lesson is complementary with Big Data for Engineers as they cover different time periods of database history and practices -- you can take them in any order, even though it might be more enjoyable to take this lecture first.

After visiting this course, you will be capable to:

1. Explain, in the big picture, how a relational database works and what it can do in your own words.

2. Explain the relational data model (tables, rows, attributes, primary keys, foreign keys), formally and informally, including the relational algebra operators (select, project, rename, all kinds of joins, division, cartesian product, union, intersection, etc).

3. Perform non-trivial reading SQL queries on existing relational databases, as well as insert new data, update and delete existing data.

4. Design new schemas to store data in accordance to the real world's constraints, such as relationship cardinality

5. Explain what bad design is and why it matters.

6. Adapt and improve an existing schema to make it more robust against anomalies, thanks to a very good theoretical knowledge of what is called "normal forms".

7. Understand how indices work (hash indices, B-trees), how they are implemented, and how to use them to make queries faster.

8. Access an existing relational database from a host language such as Java, using bridges such as JDBC.

9. Explain what data independence is all about and didn't age a bit since the 1970s.

10. Explain, in the big picture, how a relational database is physically implemented.

11. Know and deal with the natural syntax for relational data, CSV.

12. Explain the data cube model including slicing and dicing.

13. Store data cubes in a relational database.

14. Map cube queries to SQL.

15. Slice and dice cubes in a UI.

And of course, you will think that tables are the most wonderful object in the world.
ContentUsing a relational database
=================
1. Introduction
2. The relational model
3. Data definition with SQL
4. The relational algebra
5. Queries with SQL

Taking a relational database to the next level
=================
6. Database design theory
7. Databases and host languages
8. Databases and host languages
9. Indices and optimization
10. Database architecture and storage

Analytics on top of a relational database
=================
12. Data cubes

Outlook
=================
13. Outlook
Literature- Lecture material (slides).

- Book: "Database Systems: The Complete Book", H. Garcia-Molina, J.D. Ullman, J. Widom
(It is not required to buy the book, as the library has it)
Prerequisites / NoticeThe lecture is hybrid, meaning you can attend with us in the lecture hall, or on Zoom, or watch the recordings on YouTube later. Exercise sessions are in presence.

For non-CS/DS students only, BSc and MSc
Elementary knowledge of set theory and logics
Knowledge as well as basic experience with a programming language such as Pascal, C, C++, Java, Haskell, Python
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
327-0703-00LElectron Microscopy in Material ScienceW4 credits2V + 2US. Gerstl, R. Erni, F. Gramm, A. Käch, F. Krumeich, K. Kunze
AbstractA comprehensive understanding of the interaction of electrons and ions with condensed matter and details on the instrumentation and methods designed to use these probes in the structural and chemical analysis of various materials.
Learning objectiveA comprehensive understanding of the interaction of electrons and ions with condensed matter and details on the instrumentation and methods designed to use these probes in the structural and chemical analysis of various materials.
ContentThis course provides a general introduction into electron- and ion- microscopy of organic and inorganic materials. In the first part, the basics of transmission- and scanning electron microscopy are presented. The second part includes the most important aspects of specimen preparation, imaging and image processing. In the third part, focused ion-beam and atom probe microscopes are presented. Throughout the semester, various applications in materials science, solid state physics, structural biology, structural geology, and structural chemistry will be reported.
Lecture noteswill be distributed in English
LiteratureGoodhew, Humphreys, Beanland: Electron Microscopy and Analysis, 3rd. Ed., CRC Press, 2000
Thomas, Gemming: Analytical Transmission Electron Microscopy - An Introduction for Operators, Springer, Berlin, 2014
Thomas, Gemming: Analytische Transmissionselektronenmikroskopie: Eine Einführung für den Praktiker, Springer, Berlin, 2013
Williams, Carter: Transmission Electron Microscopy, Plenum Press, 1996
Reimer, Kohl: Transmission Electron Microscopy, 5th Ed., Berlin, 2008
Erni: Aberration-corrected imaging in transmission electron microscopy, Imperial College Press (2010, and 2nd ed. 2015)
Larson, David: Local Electrode Atom Probe Tomography. Springer Series in Materials Science, New York (2013).
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
327-0702-00LEM-Practical Course in Materials ScienceW2 credits4PK. Kunze, S. Gerstl, F. Gramm, F. Krumeich, J. Reuteler
AbstractPractical work on TEM, SEM, FIB and APT
treatment of typical problems
data analysis, writing of a report
Learning objectiveApplication of basic electron microscopic techniques to materials science problems
Literaturesee lecture Electron Microscopy (327-0703-00L)
Prerequisites / NoticeAttendance of lecture Electron Microscopy (327-0703-00L) is recommended.
Maximum number of participants 15, work in groups of 3 people.
327-2125-00LMicroscopy Training SEM I - Introduction to SEM Restricted registration - show details
The number of participants is limited. In case of overbooking, the course will be repeated once. All registrations will be recorded on the waiting list.

For PhD students, postdocs and others, a fee will be charged (https://scopem.ethz.ch/education/MTP.html).

All applicants must additionally register on this form: Link
The selected applicants will be contacted and asked for confirmation a few weeks before the course date.
W2 credits3PP. Zeng, A. G. Bittermann, S. Gerstl, L. Grafulha Morales, K. Kunze, F. Lucas, J. Reuteler
AbstractThis introductory course on Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) emphasizes hands-on learning. Using ScopeM SEMs, students have the opportunity to study their own samples (or samples provided) and solve practical problems by applying knowledge acquired during the lectures. At the end of the course, students will be able to apply SEM for their (future) research projects.
Learning objective- Set-up, align and operate a SEM successfully and safely.
- Understand important operational parameters of SEM and optimize microscope performance.
- Explain different signals in SEM and obtain secondary electron (SE) and backscatter electron (BSE) images.
- Operate the SEM in low-vacuum mode.
- Make use of EDX for semi-quantitative elemental analysis.
- Prepare samples with different techniques and equipment for imaging and analysis by SEM.
ContentDuring the course, students learn through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on sessions how to setup and operate SEM instruments, including low-vacuum and low-voltage applications.
This course gives basic skills for students new to SEM. At the end of the course, students are able to align an SEM, to obtain secondary electron (SE) and backscatter electron (BSE) images and to perform energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) semi-quantitative analysis. Emphasis is put on procedures to optimize SEM parameters in order to best solve practical problems and deal with a wide range of materials.

Lectures:
- Introduction on Electron Microscopy and instrumentation
- electron sources, electron lenses and probe formation
- beam/specimen interaction, image formation, image contrast and imaging modes.
- sample preparation techniques for EM
- X-ray micro-analysis (theory and detection), qualitative and semi-quantitative EDX and point analysis, linescan and spectral mapping

Practicals:
- Brief description and demonstration of the SEM microscope
- Practice on image formation, image contrast (and image processing)
- Student participation on sample preparation techniques
- Scanning Electron Microscopy lab exercises: setup and operate the instrument under various imaging modalities
- Practice on real-world samples and report results
Lecture notesLecture notes will be distributed.
Literature- Peter Goodhew, John Humphreys, Richard Beanland: Electron Microscopy and Analysis, 3rd ed., CRC Press, 2000
- Joseph Goldstein, et al, Scanning Electron Microscopy and X-Ray Microanalysis, 4th ed, Srpinger US, 2018
- Egerton: Physical Principles of Electron Microscopy: an introduction to TEM, SEM and AEM, Springer Verlag, 2007
Prerequisites / NoticeNo mandatory prerequisites.
327-2126-00LMicroscopy Training TEM I - Introduction to TEM Restricted registration - show details
The number of participants is limited. In case of overbooking, the course will be repeated once. All registrations will be recorded on the waiting list.

For PhD students, postdocs and others, a fee will be charged (https://scopem.ethz.ch/education/MTP.html).

All applicants must additionally register on this form: Link
The selected applicants will be contacted and asked for confirmation a few weeks before the course date.
W2 credits3PP. Zeng, E. Barthazy Meier, A. G. Bittermann, F. Gramm, A. Sologubenko
AbstractThe introductory course on Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) provides theoretical and hands-on learning for beginners who are interested in using TEM for their Master or PhD thesis. TEM sample preparation techniques are also discussed. During hands-on sessions at different TEM instruments, students will have the opportunity to examine their own samples if time allows.
Learning objectiveUnderstanding of
1. the set-up and individual components of a TEM
2. the basics of electron optics and image formation
3. the basics of electron beam – sample interactions
4. the contrast mechanism
5. various sample preparation techniques
Learning how to
1. align and operate a TEM
2. acquire data using different operation modes of a TEM instrument, i.e. Bright-field and Dark-field imaging
3. record electron diffraction patterns and index diffraction patterns
4. interpret TEM data
ContentLectures:
- basics of electron optics and the TEM instrument set-up
- TEM imaging modes and image contrast
- STEM operation mode
- Sample preparation techniques for hard and soft materials

Practicals:
- Demo, practical demonstration of a TEM: instrument components, alignment, etc.
- Hands-on training for students: sample loading, instrument alignment and data acquisition.
- Sample preparation for different types of materials
- Practical work with TEMs
- Demonstration of advanced Transmission Electron Microscopy techniques
Lecture notesLecture notes will be distributed.
Literature- Williams, Carter: Transmission Electron Microscopy, Plenum Press, 1996
- Hawkes, Valdre: Biophysical Electron Microscopy, Academic Press, 1990
- Egerton: Physical Principles of Electron Microscopy: an introduction to TEM, SEM and AEM, Springer Verlag, 2007
Prerequisites / NoticeNo mandatory prerequisites. Please consider the prior attendance to EM Basic lectures (551-1618-00V; 227-0390-00L; 327-0703-00L) as suggested prerequisite.
327-2210-00LThin Films Technology - From Fundamentals to Oxide Electronics
Students who already took "327-2104-00L Inorganic Thin Films: Processing, Properties and Applications" AND "327-2132-00 Multifunctional Ferroic Materials: Growth and Characterisation" are not allowed to attend this course.
W4 credits4GM. Trassin, C. Schneider
AbstractWe will give an introduction to thin films deposition techniques and applications with a focus on the growth of multifunctional oxide thin films. The leading deposition routes (PVD and CVD techniques) and characterization techniques for application-relevant thin films will be discussed. Emerging oxide electronics, materials selection and energy efficient device concepts will be introduced.
Learning objectiveOxide films with a thickness of just a few atoms can now be grown with a precision matching that of semiconductors. This opens up a whole world of functional device concepts and fascinating phenomena that would not occur in the expanded bulk crystal. Particularly interesting phenomena occur in films showing magnetic or electric order or, even better, both of these ("multiferroics").
In this course students will obtain an overarching view on thin film deposition techniques with a focus on epitaxial deposition processes. We will show how the thin film functionalities of the films can be engineering by the deposition process and present the state of the art for advanced characterization in the technology relevant ultra-thin limit.

Students will therefore understand how to fabricate and characterize highly oriented films with magnetic and electric properties not found in nature.
ContentGeneral description of the leading deposition routes including physical and chemical vapor deposition techniques (PVD and CVD) as well as so called "wet techniques" (e.g. spin coating and spray pyrolysis).

Growth modes and processes.

Part of the course discusses vacuum technologies.

Fundamental characterization techniques for application-relevant thin films as well as state of the art approaches for in situ and ex-situ determination of the structural, chemical and ferroic (ferromagnetic and ferroelectric) properties of films: (XRD for thin films, RHEED, EDX, scanning probe microscopy techniques, laser-optical characterization and many more)

Epitaxy for the advanced design and characterization of high quality thin films for energy efficient oxide electronics.

Types of ferroic order, multiferroics, mulitfiunctional oxide materials, epitaxial strain related effects, oxide thin film based devices and examples.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCooperation and Teamworkfostered
Customer Orientationfostered
Leadership and Responsibilityfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection assessed
Self-direction and Self-management assessed
363-0537-00LResource and Environmental EconomicsW3 credits2GL. Bretschger, M. L. Newham
AbstractRelationship between economy and environment, market failures, external effects and public goods, contingent valuation, internalisation of externalities, economics of non-renewable resources, economics of renewable resources, environmental cost-benefit analysis, sustainability economics, and international resource and environmental problems.
Learning objectiveA successful completion of the course will enable a thorough understanding of the basic questions and methods of resource and environmental economics and the ability to solve typical problems using appropriate tools consisting of concise verbal explanations, diagrams or mathematical expressions. Concrete goals are first of all the acquisition of knowledge about the main questions of resource and environmental economics and about the foundation of the theory with different normative concepts in terms of efficiency and fairness. Secondly, students should be able to deal with environmental externalities and internalisation through appropriate policies or private negotiations, including knowledge of the available policy instruments and their relative strengths and weaknesses. Thirdly, the course will allow for in-depth economic analysis of renewable and non-renewable resources, including the role of stock constraints, regeneration functions, market power, property rights and the impact of technology. A fourth objective is to successfully use the well-known tool of cost-benefit analysis for environmental policy problems, which requires knowledge of the benefits of an improved natural environment. The last two objectives of the course are the acquisition of sufficient knowledge about the economics of sustainability and the application of environmental economic theory and policy at international level, e.g. to the problem of climate change.
ContentThe course covers all the interactions between the economy and the natural environment. It introduces and explains basic welfare concepts and market failure; external effects, public goods, and environmental policy; the measurement of externalities and contingent valuation; the economics of non-renewable resources, renewable resources, cost-benefit-analysis, sustainability concepts; international aspects of resource and environmental problems; selected examples and case studies. After a general introduction to resource and environmental economics, highlighting its importace and the main issues, the course explains the normative basis, utilitarianism, and fairness according to different principles. Pollution externalities are a deep core topic of the lecture. We explain the governmental internalisation of externalities as well as the private internalisation of externalities (Coase theorem). Furthermore, the issues of free rider problems and public goods, efficient levels of pollution, tax vs. permits, and command and control instruments add to a thorough analysis of environmental policy. Turning to resource supply, the lecture first looks at empirical data on non-renewable natural resources and then develops the optimal price development (Hotelling-rule). It deals with the effects of explorations, new technologies, and market power. When treating the renewable resources, we look at biological growth functions, optimal harvesting of renewable resources, and the overuse of open-access resources. A next topic is cost-benefit analysis with the environment, requiring measuring environmental benefits and measuring costs. In the chapter on sustainability, the course covers concepts of sustainability, conflicts with optimality, and indicators of sustainability. In a final chapter, we consider international environmental problems and in particular climate change and climate policy.
LiteraturePerman, R., Ma, Y., McGilvray, J, Common, M.: "Natural Resource & Environmental Economics", 4th edition, 2011, Harlow, UK: Pearson Education
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
363-0541-00LEconomic Dynamics and ComplexityW3 credits3GF. Schweitzer
AbstractWhat causes economic business cycles? How are limited resources, competition, and cooperation reflected in growth dynamics? To answer such questions, we combine macroeconomic models and methods of nonlinear dynamics. We study the role of bifurcations and control parameters for dynamic stability. Feedback cycles and coupled dynamics are reasons for limited predictability, instability and chaos.
Learning objectivesuccessful participant of the course is able to:
- understand the importance of different modeling approaches
- formalize and solve one- and two-dimensional nonlinear models
- identify critical conditions for stability and dynamic transitions
- analyze macroeconomic models of business cycles, supply and demand
- apply formal concepts to model economic growth and competition
ContentSystem theory sees the economy as a complex adaptive system.
What does this mean for economic modeling?
We focus on two sources of complexity: (a) nonlinear dynamics, which is captured in this course, "Economic Dynamics and Complexity" and (b) collective interactions, which is captured in the course "Agent-Based Modeling of Economic Systems" (in Spring).

Our approach to economic dynamics combines insights from different disciplines: macroeconomics studying business cycles and growth, system dynamics rooted general system theory and cybernetics, and nonlinear dynamics using applied mathematics.

We start with a comparison of different modeling approaches, to highlight the problems and challenges of system modeling.
The subsequent lectures then introduce different one- and two-dimensional nonlinear models with applications in economics, such as models of supply and demand, business cycles, growth and competition.
Emphasis is on the formal analysis of these models using methods from applied mathematics and tools for solving coupled differential equations.

Weekly self-study tasks are used to apply the concepts introduced in the lectures.
We practice how to solve nonlinear models formally and numerically and how to interpret the results.
Lecture notesThe lecture slides are provided as handouts - including notes and literature sources - to registered students only. All material is to be found on the Moodle platform. More details during the first lecture.
Prerequisites / NoticeStudents should be familar with nonlinear differential equations and should have basic programming skills. All necessary details to solve nonlinear models will be provided in the course. The course will not build on mathematical proofs, optimization, statistics, efficient numerical computation and other specialized skills.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
Integrity and Work Ethicsfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
529-0130-00LAdvanced Magnetic Resonance - DNP Instrumentation and ApplicationsW6 credits3GA. Barnes, S. Overall, I. Pagonakis
AbstractThe course is for advanced students and covers selected topics from magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The following topics will be covered:
•DNP theory & instrumentation
•Microwave theory & technology
•Biological applications of solid-state DNP
Learning objectiveThe course aims at enabling students to understand the key theoretical points of DNP and to design DNP experiments. Students will be familiarized with the structure of the state-of-the-art DNP instrumentation. Students will be also informed about the technological challenges towards the development of advanced instrumentation for the future DNP experiments. A special focus will be given in the technology of microwave source.
Furthermore, students will become familiar with pulse sequences used in biomolecular applications and understand how they are constructed. Students will be able to identify the strengths and weaknesses of biomolecular DNP and how to design DNP experiments for biological applications including sample preparation and choice of NMR experiment and related parameters.
ContentThe course is separated in three well separated parts.

The first part will cover DNP concept and mechanisms, while a special focus will be given in DNP instrumentation, such as MAS technology, and the NMR probe. Several details will be also presented on the development high field NMR magnet.

The second part of the course is dedicated to the microwave theory and technology. This part starts with an introduction of the two different types of microwave sources, such as the solid-state devices and vacuum tubes, which are extensively used in DNP and EPR spectroscopy. A special focus will be given to the vacuum tube’s theory and technology. In this context, the Maxwell equations and the propagation of the transverse electric and transverse magnetic modes in circular waveguides will be taught. This material will be the basis for understanding the resonance theory and the fundamentals of the microwave’s generation in vacuum tubes. Based on the theoretical background gained in the previous lectures it will be possible to understand the operation principle of the slow wave devices, such as Klystron, Traveling Wave Tube (TWT), Backward Wave Oscillator (BWO) and Surface Wave Structure (SWS), as well as, the fast wave devices, such as gyro-devices, Free Electron Laser, etc. Finally, some details on the structure of a real DNP gyrotron will be presented.

The third part of the course will cover CPMAS and homonuclear and heteronuclear recoupling schemes and their use in correlation spectroscopy for structure and molecular interaction
determination. Sample preparation with particular emphasis of glassing agents and their relationship to DNP enhancements will be discussed. Resolution under DNP including a discussion about inhomogeneous and homogeneous broadening at cryogenic temperatures. Methods for circumventing low resolution at cryogenic temperatures will be discussed including site specific isotope labeling, bio-orthogonal labeling and site specific radical labeling/targeting. Concepts around the role of spin diffusion in DNP, direct and indirect DNP, paramagnetic broadening, longitudinal T1 and methyl quenching in biological NMR will also be discussed. These concepts will then be tied together through discussions of biomolecular applications of solid-state DNP including membrane proteins, in-cell DNP and viruses.
Lecture notesA script which covers the topics will be accessible through the course Moodle
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: A basic knowledge of Magnetic Resonance, e.g. as covered in the Lecture Physical Chemistry IV, or the book "Spin Dynamics" by Malcolm Levitt.
529-0027-00LAdvanced Magnetic Resonance - Solid State NMR Information
Does not take place this semester.
W6 credits3GM. Ernst
AbstractThe course is for advanced students and introduces and discusses the theoretical foundations of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).
Learning objectiveThe aim of the course is to familiarize the students with the basic concepts of modern high-resolution solid-state NMR. Starting from the mathematical description of spin dynamics, important building blocks for multi-dimensional experiments are discussed to allow students a better understanding of modern solid-state NMR experiments. Particular emphasis is given to achiving high spectral resolution.
ContentThe basic principles of NMR in solids will be introduced. After the discussion of basic tools to describe NMR experiments, basic methods and experiments will be discussed, e.g., magic-angle spinning, cross polarization, decoupling, and recoupling experiments. Such basic building blocks allow a tailoring of the effective Hamiltonian to the needs of the experiment. These basic building blocks can then be combined in different ways to obtain spectra that contain the desired information.
Lecture notesA script which covers the topics will be distributed in the lecture and will be accessible through the web page http://www.ssnmr.ethz.ch/education/
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisite: A basic knowledge of NMR, e.g. as covered in the Lecture Physical Chemistry IV, or the book by Malcolm Levitt.
529-0433-01LAdvanced Physical Chemistry: Statistical ThermodynamicsW6 credits3GR. Riek, J. Richardson
AbstractIntroduction to statistical mechanics and thermodynamics. Prediction of thermodynamic and kinetic properties from molecular data.
Learning objectiveIntroduction to statistical mechanics and thermodynamics. Prediction of thermodynamic and kinetic properties from molecular data.
ContentBasics of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics of classical and quantum systems. Concept of ensembles, microcanonical and canonical ensembles, ergodic theorem. Molecular and canonical partition functions and their connection with classical thermodynamics. Quantum statistics. Translational, rotational, vibrational, electronic and nuclear spin partition functions of gases. Determination of the equilibrium constants and (transition-state theory) rates of gas phase reactions. Description of ideal gases and ideal crystals. Lattice models, mixing entropy of polymers, and entropic elasticity.
Lecture notesSee homepage of the lecture.
LiteratureSee homepage of the lecture.
Prerequisites / NoticeChemical Thermodynamics, Reaction Kinetics, Molecular Quantum Mechanics and Spectroscopy; Mathematical Foundations (Analysis, Combinatorial Relations, Integral and Differential Calculus)
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Problem-solvingassessed
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingassessed
651-3440-02LGeophysics IIIW4 credits3GA. Jackson, M.‑A. Meier, P. Tackley
AbstractThis course builds on Geophysik I and Geophysik II, broadening the students' education in seismology, geodynamics and geodynamo theory, by considering various specific topics of particular interest.
Learning objectiveTo teach students the basics of observational seismology, earthquake source seismology, seismotectonics and the principle of seismic tomography, mantle convection over Earth history, structure of the oceanic and continental lithosphere, plate tectonics, hotspots, global heat flux, dynamo operation and magnetic field generation in Earth, planets, the Sun and stars and electromagnetism to probe the mantle.
ContentObservational seismology, earthquake source seismology, seismotectonics and the principle of seismic tomography. Mantle convection over Earth history, structure of the oceanic and continental lithosphere, plate tectonics, hotspots, global heat flux. Dynamo operation and magnetic field generation in Earth, planets, the Sun and stars; electromagnetism to probe the mantle.
651-4010-00LPlanetary Physics and ChemistryW3 credits2GC. Gillmann
AbstractThis course aims to give a physical understanding of the formation, structure, dynamics and evolution of planetary bodies in our solar system and also apply it to ongoing discoveries regarding planets around other stars.
Learning objectiveThe goal of this course is to enable students to understand current knowledge and uncertainties regarding the formation, structure, dynamics and evolution of planets and moons in our solar system, as well as ongoing discoveries regarding planets around other stars. Students will practice making quantitative calculations relevant to various aspects of these topics through weekly homeworks.

The main topics covered are: Orbital dynamics and Tides, Solar heating and Energy transport, Planetary atmospheres, Planetary surfaces, Planetary interiors, Asteroids and Meteorites, Comets, Planetary rings, Magnetic fields and Magnetospheres, The Sun and Stars, Planetary formation, Exoplanets and Exobiology
Lecture notesSlides and scripts will be posted on Moodle.
LiteratureIt is recommended but not mandatory to buy one of these books:

Planetary Sciences, 2nd edition, by Imke de Pater & Jack J. Lissauer (hardback), Cambridge University Press, 2015. Available free online from ETH's network.

Fundamental Planetary Science (updated edition), by Jack J. Lissauer & Imke de Pater (paperback), Cambridge University Press, 2019.

Fundamental Planetary Science, by Jack J. Lissauer & Imke de Pater (paperback), Cambridge University Press, 2013.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
701-1253-00LAnalysis of Climate and Weather Data Information W3 credits2GC. Frei
AbstractAn introduction into methods of statistical data analysis in meteorology and climatology. Applications of hypothesis testing, extreme value analysis, evaluation of deterministic and probabilistic predictions, principal component analysis.
Participants understand the theoretical concepts and purpose of methods, can apply them independently and know how to interpret results professionally.
Learning objectiveStudents understand the theoretical foundations and probabilistic concepts of advanced analysis tools in meteorology and climatology. They can conduct such analyses independently, and they develop an attitude of scrutiny and an awareness of uncertainty when interpreting results. Participants improve skills in understanding technical literature that uses modern statistical data analyses.
ContentThe course introduces several advanced methods of statistical data analysis frequently used in meteorology and climatology. It introduces the thoretical background of the methods, illustrates their application with example datasets, and discusses complications from assumptions and uncertainties. Generally, the course shall empower students to conduct data analysis thoughtfully and to interprete results critically.

Topics covered: exploratory methods, hypothesis testing, analysis of climate trends, measuring the skill of deterministic and probabilistic predictions, analysis of extremes, principal component analysis and maximum covariance analysis.

The course is divided into lectures and computer workshops. Hands-on experimentation with example data shall encourage students in the practical application of methods and train professional interpretation of results.

R (a free software environment for statistical computing) will be used during the workshop. A short introduction into R will be provided during the course.
Lecture notesDocumentation and supporting material:
- slides used during the lecture
- excercise sets and solutions
- R-packages with software and example datasets for workshop sessions

All material is made available via the lecture web-page.
LiteratureFor complementary reading:
- Wilks D.S., 2011: Statistical Methods in the Atmospheric Science. (3rd edition). Academic Press Inc., Elsevier LTD (Oxford)
- Coles S., 2001: An introduction to statistical modeling of extreme values. Springer, London. 208 pp.
Prerequisites / NoticePrerequisites: Basics in exploratory data analysis, probability calculus and statistics (incl linear regression) (e.g. Mathematik IV: Statistik (401-0624-00L) and Mathematik VI: Angewandte Statistik für Umweltnaturwissenschaften (701-0105-00L)). Some experience in programming (ideally in R). Some elementary background in atmospheric physics and climatology.
701-1257-00LEuropean Climate ChangeW3 credits2GC. Schär, J. Rajczak, S. C. Scherrer
AbstractThe lecture provides an overview of climate change in Europe, from a physical and atmospheric science perspective. It covers the following topics:
• observational datasets, observation and detection of climate change;
• underlying physical processes and feedbacks;
• numerical and statistical approaches;
• currently available projections.
Learning objectiveAt the end of this course, participants should:
• understand the key physical processes shaping climate change in Europe;
• know about the methodologies used in climate change studies, encompassing observational, numerical, as well as statistical approaches;
• be familiar with relevant observational and modeling data sets;
• be able to tackle simple climate change questions using available data sets.
ContentContents:
• global context
• observational data sets, analysis of climate trends and climate variability in Europe
• global and regional climate modeling
• statistical downscaling
• key aspects of European climate change: intensification of the water cycle, Polar and Mediterranean amplification, changes in extreme events, changes in hydrology and snow cover, topographic effects
• projections of European and Alpine climate change
Lecture notesSlides and lecture notes will be made available at
http://www.iac.ethz.ch/edu/courses/master/electives/european-climate-change.html
Prerequisites / NoticeParticipants should have a background in natural sciences, and have attended introductory lectures in atmospheric sciences or meteorology.
Proseminars and Semester Papers
To organise a semester project take contact with one of the instructors.

Bachelor students in Physics who wish to register for a MSc Semester Project or Proseminar need to contact the study administration (studiensekretariat@phys.ethz.ch).

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 (www.phys.ethz.ch/studies/study-administration.html).
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0218-MSLResearch Project Restricted registration - show details W8 credits15ASupervisors
AbstractStudents conduct a small research project within a research group or carry out a guided self-study of original papers on a given theoretical topic. The results are submitted in a written report and an oral presentation.
Learning objectiveStudents are enabled to:
• expand their knowledge in a specific area of physics,
• conduct a project (a) in a research laboratory or (b) on a specific topic of theoretical physics,
• discuss their project results and conclusions in a team,
• present their findings in written and oral form.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingfostered
Integrity and Work Ethicsassessed
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
402-0219-MSLResearch Project II Restricted registration - show details
To register, please contact the study administration at studies.physics@ethz.ch
W8 credits15ASupervisors
AbstractStudents conduct a small research project within a research group or carry out a guided self-study of original papers on a given theoretical topic. The results are submitted in a written report and an oral presentation.
Learning objectiveStudents are enabled to:
• expand their knowledge in a specific area of physics,
• conduct a project (a) in a research laboratory or (b) on a specific topic of theoretical physics,
• discuss their project results and conclusions in a team,
• present their findings in written and oral form.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesassessed
Techniques and Technologiesassessed
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesassessed
Decision-makingassessed
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Problem-solvingassessed
Project Managementfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationassessed
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingassessed
Critical Thinkingfostered
Integrity and Work Ethicsassessed
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
Self-direction and Self-management fostered
Science in Perspective
» Recommended Science in Perspective (Type B) for D-PHYS
» see Science in Perspective: Language Courses ETH/UZH
» see Science in Perspective: Type A: Enhancement of Reflection Capability
Master's Thesis
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-2000-00LScientific Works in Physics
Target audience:
Master students who cannot document to have received an adequate training in working scientifically.

Directive Link
O0 creditsD. Kienzler
AbstractLiterature Review: ETH-Library, Journals in Physics, Google Scholar; Thesis Structure: The IMRAD Model; Document Processing: LaTeX and BibTeX, Mathematical Writing, AVETH Survival Guide; ETH Guidelines for Integrity; Authorship Guidelines; ETH Citation Etiquettes; Declaration of Originality.
Learning objectiveBasic standards for scientific works in physics: How to write a Master Thesis. What to know about research integrity.
402-0900-30LMaster's Thesis Restricted registration - show details
Only students who fulfil the following criteria are allowed to begin with their master's thesis:
a. successful completion of the bachelor programme;
b. fulfilling of any additional requirements necessary to gain admission to the master programme.
c. have acquired at least 8 credits in the category Proseminars and Semester Papers.

Further information: http://www.phys.ethz.ch/phys/education/master/msc-theses
O30 credits57DSupervisors
AbstractThe master's thesis concludes the study programme. Thesis work should prove the students' ability to independent, structured and scientific working.
Learning objective
Seminars, Colloquia, and Additional Courses
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
402-0101-00LThe Zurich Physics Colloquium Information E-0 credits1KS. Huber, A. Refregier, University lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objectiveThe goal of this event is to bring you closer to current day research in all fields of physics. In each semester we have a set of distinguished speakers covering the full range of topics in physics. As a participating student should learn how to follow a research talk. In particular, you should be able to extract key points from a colloquium where you don't necessarily understand every detail that is presented.
402-0800-00LThe Zurich Theoretical Physics Colloquium Information E-0 credits1KJ. Renes, University lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning 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, P. Hintz, T. H. Willwacher
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objective
402-0551-00LLaser SeminarE-0 credits1ST. Esslinger, J. Faist, J. Home, A. Imamoglu, U. Keller, F. Merkt, H. J. Wörner
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objective
402-0600-00LNuclear and Particle Physics with ApplicationsE-0 credits2SA. Rubbia, K. S. Kirch, R. Wallny
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objective
402-0893-00LParticle Physics SeminarE-0 credits1ST. K. Gehrmann
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objective
Prerequisites / NoticeOccasionally, talks may be delivered in German.
402-0700-00LSeminar in Elementary Particle Physics Information
LTP/PSI Colloquium
E-0 credits1SM. Spira
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objectiveStay informed about current research results in elementary particle physics.
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Personal CompetenciesCreative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
402-0746-00LSeminar: Particle and Astrophysics (Aktuelles aus der Teilchen- und Astrophysik)E-0 credits1SUniversity lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning 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.
402-0300-00LIPA Colloquium Information E-0 credits1SA. Biland, A. de Cosa, A. Refregier, H. M. Schmid, further lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objective
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 as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: AST006

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
E-0 credits1SUniversity lecturers
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objective
402-0530-00LMesoscopic SystemsE-0 credits1ST. M. Ihn
AbstractResearch colloquium
Learning objectiveStudents are able to understand modern experiments in the field of mesoscopic systems and nanostructures. They can present their own results, critically reflect published research in this field, explain both to an audience of physicists, and participate in a critical and constructive scientific discussion.
402-0620-00LCurrent Topics in Accelerator Mass Spectrometry and Its ApplicatonsE-0 credits2SM. Christl, S. Willett
AbstractThe seminar is aimed at all students who, during their studies, are confronted with age determination methods based on long-living radionuclides found in nature. Basic methodology, the latest developments, and special examples from a wide range of applications will be discussed.
Learning objectiveThe seminar provides the participants an overview about newest trends and developments of accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and related applications. In their talks and subsequent discussions the participants learn intensively about the newest trends in the field of AMS thus attaining a broad knowledge on both, the physical principles and the applications of AMS, which goes far beyond the horizon of their own studies.
227-0980-00LSeminar on Biomedical Magnetic Resonance Information E-0 credits1SK. P. Prüssmann, S. Kozerke, M. Weiger Senften
AbstractCurrent developments and problems of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Learning objectiveGetting insight into 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 as an incoming student.
UZH Module Code: INI701

Mind the enrolment deadlines at UZH:
https://www.uzh.ch/cmsssl/en/studies/application/deadlines.html
E-0 credits1KS.‑C. Liu, R. Hahnloser, V. Mante
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.
Learning 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.
651-1581-00LSeminar in GlaciologyE-3 credits2SA. Bauder, M. Jacquemart
AbstractIntroduction to classic and modern literature of research in Glaciology. Active participation is expected and participants are mentored by PhD students of Glaciology.
Learning objectiveIn-depth knowledge of selected topics of research in Glaciology. Introduction to different types of scientific presentation. Improve ability of the discussion of scientific topics.
ContentSelected topics of scientific research in Glaciology
Lecture notesCopies/pdf of scientific papers will be distributed during the course (moodle interface)
Prerequisites / NoticeActive participation is expected with presence at the sessions. Only s limited number of participants can be accepted. One of the following courses should be taken as preparation:
- 651-3561-00L Kryosphäre
- 101-0289-00L Applied Glaciology
- 651-4101-00L Physics of Glaciers
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Techniques and Technologiesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Decision-makingfostered
Media and Digital Technologiesfostered
Social CompetenciesCommunicationfostered
Cooperation and Teamworkfostered
Self-presentation and Social Influence fostered
Sensitivity to Diversityfostered
Negotiationfostered
Personal CompetenciesAdaptability and Flexibilityfostered
Creative Thinkingfostered
Critical Thinkingfostered
Self-awareness and Self-reflection fostered
402-0010-00LBasics of Computing Environments for Scientists Information
Enrollment is only possible under https://www.lehrbetrieb.ethz.ch/laborpraktika
No registration required via myStudies.
Z0 credits1VC. D. Herzog, C. Becker, S. Müller
AbstractIntroduce IT services at D-PHYS and offer modules covering IT-related topics for scientists.
Learning objectiveThe "IT at D-PHYS" introduction provides a good understanding of how IT works at D-PHYS and presents an overview of the IT services and their providers. It is recommended for everyone joining the department.

The "IT and Information Security" crash course will address the most common threats you'll encounter when using the internet and teach you how to fend them off.

The remainder is structured into individual modules which can be attended separately. They give practical insights into everyday research-related IT challenges.

The "Linux Basics" modules offer an introduction to the Linux landscape and show how to work on the shell by using command line tools. The first part provides a basic understanding of Linux systems and their components. It introduces commands essential to working with local and remote machines. The second part focuses on more advanced tools and workflows and provides guidelines to scripting, automation and customization.

The "Python Ecosystem" modules present various aspects of the environment around Python. Without teaching the Python programming language itself, it aims at providing understanding of various concepts surrounding it. The first part focuses on getting ready to run code. It discusses the management of Python interpreters, packages and virtual environments. The second part presents tools for writing Python code and interacting with strings. From development environments (IDE, Jupyter), over code formatters and linters, to string formatting and parsing with regular expressions. The third part sits at the interface between Python code and external data files. We explain how to read or write files, discuss data types and file formats. We show how to handle configuration parameters and mention tools to automate the data analysis.

The "System Aspects module" deals with the hardware-related side of scientific computing. To get the best performance out of your scientific code, you have to be aware of the underlying hardware and adapt to it.

Use the dedicated web page https://www.lehrbetrieb.ethz.ch/laborpraktika to register. Enrolled students are eligible for an attestation of attendance after visiting at least 3 out of the 5 modules. Refer to https://compenv.phys.ethz.ch for the detailed contents.
ContentIntroduction:

IT at D-PHYS (IT service providers and IT services at D-PHYS)
IT and Information Security

Modules:

Linux Basics I (system components, basic shell usage)
Linux Basics II (advanced tools, scripting)
Python Ecosystem I (interpreters, packages, virtual environments)
Python Ecosystem II (development environments, formatter and linter, string formatting, regexp)
Python Ecosystem III (external data files, config parameters and automation)
System Aspects (how the hardware affects your scientific code and vice versa)
CompetenciesCompetencies
Subject-specific CompetenciesConcepts and Theoriesfostered
Method-specific CompetenciesAnalytical Competenciesfostered
Problem-solvingfostered
Course Units for Additional Admission Requirements
The courses below are only available for MSc students with additional admission requirements.
NumberTitleTypeECTSHoursLecturers
406-0204-AALElectrodynamics
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-7 credits15RG. M. Graf
AbstractDerivation and discussion of Maxwell's equations, from the static limit to the full dynamical case. Wave equation, waveguides, cavities. Generation of electromagnetic radiation, scattering and diffraction of light. Structure of Maxwell's equations, relativity theory and covariance, Lagrangian formulation. Dynamics of relativistic particles in the presence of fields and radiation properties.
Learning objectiveDevelop a physical understanding for static and dynamic phenomena related to (moving) charged objects and understand the structure of the classical field theory of electrodynamics (transverse versus longitudinal physics, invariances (Lorentz-, gauge-)). Appreciate the interrelation between electric, magnetic, and optical phenomena and the influence of media. Understand a set of classic electrodynamical phenomena and develop the ability to solve simple problems independently. Apply previously learned mathematical concepts (vector analysis, complete systems of functions, Green's functions, co- and contravariant coordinates, etc.). Prepare for quantum mechanics (eigenvalue problems, wave guides and cavities).
ContentClassical field theory of electrodynamics: Derivation and discussion of Maxwell equations, starting from the static limit (electrostatics, magnetostatics, boundary value problems) in the vacuum and in media and subsequent generalization to the full dynamical case (Faraday's law, Ampere/Maxwell law; potentials and gauge invariance). Wave equation and solutions in full space, half-space (Snell's law), waveguides, cavities, generation of electromagnetic radiation, scattering and diffraction of light (optics). Application to various specific examples. Discussion of the structure of Maxwell's equations, Lorentz invariance, relativity theory and covariance, Lagrangian formulation. Dynamics
of relativistic particles in the presence of fields and their radiation properties (synchrotron).
LiteratureJ.D. Jackson, Classical Electrodynamics
W.K.H Panovsky and M. Phillis, Classical electricity and magnetism
L.D. Landau, E.M. Lifshitz, and L.P. Pitaevskii, Electrodynamics of continuus media
A. Sommerfeld, Elektrodynamik, Optik (Vorlesungen über theoretische Physik)
M. Born and E. Wolf, Principles of optics
R. Feynman, R. Leighton, and M. Sands, The Feynman Lectures of Physics, Vol II
401-2673-AALNumerical Methods for CSE
Enrolment ONLY for MSc students with a decree declaring this course unit as an additional admission requirement.

Any other students (e.g. incoming exchange students, doctoral students) CANNOT enrol for this course unit.
E-9 credits19RV. C. Gradinaru
Abstracthe course gives an introduction into fundamental techniques and algorithms of numerical mathematics which play a central role in numerical simulations in science and technology. The course focuses on fundamental ideas and algorithmic aspects of numerical methods. The exercises involve actual implementation of numerical methods in C++.
Learning objective* Knowledge of the fundamental algorithms in numerical mathematics
* Knowledge of the essential terms in numerical mathematics and the techniques used for the analysis of numerical algorithms
* Ability to choose the appropriate numerical method for concrete problems
* Ability to interpret numerical results
* Ability to implement numerical algorithms afficiently
Content* Direct Methods for linear systems of equations
* Least Squares Techniques
* Data Interpolation and Fitting
* Filtering Algorithms
* Approximation of Functions
* Numerical Quadrature
* Iterative Methods for non-linear systems of equations
Lecture notesLecture materials (PDF documents and codes) will be made available to participants.
LiteratureU. ASCHER AND C. GREIF, A First Course in Numerical Methods, SIAM, Philadelphia, 2011.

A. QUARTERONI, R. SACCO, AND F. SALERI, Numerical mathematics, vol. 37 of Texts in Applied Mathematics, Springer, New York, 2000.

W. Dahmen, A. Reusken "Numerik für Ingenieure und Naturwissenschaftler", Springer 2006.

M. Hanke-Bourgeois "Grundlagen der Numerischen Mathematik und des wissenschaftlichen Rechnens", BG Teubner, 2002

P. Deuflhard and A. Hohmann, "Numerische Mathematik I", DeGruyter, 2002
Prerequisites / NoticeSolid knowledge about fundamental concepts and technques from linear algebra & calculus as taught in the first year of science and engineering curricula.

The course will be accompanied by programming exercises in C++ relying on the template library EIGEN. Familiarity with C++, object oriented and generic programming is an advantage. Participants of the course are expected to learn C++ by themselves.