TEACHING
Fall 2022
1. Introduction to Quantum Computing
This course introduces students to the world of quantum computation and quantum information. Students engage in learning key algorithms and their implementations using quantum circuits. Students will develop an understanding of the major differences between traditional (classical) and modern quantum computing. Through coding and quantum simulations using Python programming language, students learn quantum computing models and basic algorithms — e.g., Deutch-Jozsa, Simon, Quantum Fourier transform, Shor, and Grover’s search algorithm. No prior programming experience is necessary. By discussing interdisciplinary topics in materials and device physics, students will also develop an appreciation for the quantum hardware necessary to run these algorithms.
Book
“Dancing with Qubits” by Robert S. Sutor (link)
Other resources
1. Nielsen and Chuang, Quantum Computation and Quantum Information, 2010 (link)
2. Bernhardt, Quantum Computing for Everyone, 2019 (link)
3. Kaye, Laflamme and Mosca, An Introduction to Quantum Computing, 2007 (link)
4. Feynman, The Feynman Lectures on Physics Vol. III, Quantum Mechanics, 1965 (link)
5. IBM Qiskit (link)
2. University Physics - PH 222, Honors section
This course provides students with the necessary mathematical and conceptual tools to understand fundamental principles in Physics. The objective for this calculus-based class is to learn concepts in electricity and magnetism: Coulomb's Law, Electric Fields, Gauss' Law, Capacitors and Dielectrics, Ohm's Law, Alternating vs. Direct Current Circuits, Magnetic Fields, Ampere's Law, Biot-Savart Law, Faraday's Law and optics. The importance of understanding physics to develop modern technology is emphasized. In this Honors class, topics are covered with more mathematical rigor and in greater depth than the regular sections.
Book
OpenStax; University Physics. Volume 2, Chapters 5-16 and Volume 3, Chapters 1-4 (link)
Other resources
1. Richard P. Feynman, The Feynman Lectures on Physics Vol. II, Electromagnetism and Matter, 1965 (link)
2. Randall D. Knight; Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4/E. Chapters 22 to 35 (link)
3. The Physics Today website (link)
4. Physics.org – a guide to Physics on the Web (link)
5. Interactive science and math simulator (link)
COURSEs TAUGHT PREVIOUSLY
Quantum Mechanics 2 - PH 451/551
This senior level undergraduate/first-year graduate course teaches principles of quantum mechanics. Topics covered are harmonic oscillator using creation and annihilation operators, degenerate and non-degenerate perturbation theory (Zeeman and Stark effects, Fine structure and Hyperfine splitting), variational methods, scattering theory, and light-matter interactions.
We are in the process of incorporating elements of quantum optics to this course. Stay tuned !
Semesters taught: Spring 2017, Spring 2018, Spring 2020, Spring 2021, Spring 2022
//Quantum Mechanics 1 - PH 450/550
This senior level undergraduate/first-year graduate course teaches principles of quantum mechanics and their applications to spin, particle waves, angular momentum, tunneling, radiation, selection rules, and the hydrogen atom.
Semesters taught: Fall 2016
//University Physics - PH 221, Honors Section
This course is the first term of calculus based physics. Linear and planar motion, Newton's laws, work and energy, gravitation, momentum, rigid body motion, elasticity, oscillations, waves, sound, fluids, ideal gases, heat and thermodynamics.
Semesters taught: Spring 2020
//General Physics - PH 201
This course is the first term of non-calculus based physics. Topics covered are linear and planar motion, Newton's laws, work and energy theorem, gravitation, momentum, rigid body motion, elasticity, oscillations, waves, sound, fluids, ideal gases, heat and thermodynamics.
Semesters taught: Fall 2017
//Topics in Contemporary Physics - PH 110
This course introduces freshmen to the different areas of physics, and to topics that physicists are working on today. Through lectures and seminars by members of the UAB physics faculty, students are introduced to the UAB Department of Physics community, their research activities, and career opportunities for graduates in the various tracks of the Physics UG program.
Talk on “Harvesting sunlight: From photosynthesis to photovoltaics solar cells”
Semesters guest lecturer: Fall 2017, Fall 2018, Fall 2019, Fall 2020
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