Openings

We are looking for new members to join our group. Please email Prof. Yuan Shi for more information.
To be considered for the following positions, please send your CV and transcripts.

Graduate Research Assistant
Undergraduate Research Assistant

If you are a prospective student, please apply to CU鈥檚 Graduate Program in Physics. If you are a current student, please reach out directly.

Simulation/theory: magnetized laser-plasma interactions (MagLPI)

In this role, you will investigate MagLPI using computer simulations, whose results will be compared against theories to guide the development of reduced models. You will learn how to run kinetic/fluid simulations on supercomputers, as well as develop protocols and software for analyzing large data sets. After initial tasks that help you ascend the learning curve, you will have ample flexibility to shape the course of the research according to your interest. The outcome of this project will impact designs of future laser-driven magnetized inertial fusion experiments at National Laboratories.

Experiment/simulation: magnetized laser-plasma interactions (MagLPI)

In this role, you will understand MagLPI using experiments at the Omega Laser Facility. You will design experiments using simulations and Computer Aided Design (CAD) software. You will interface with engineers and technicians to conduct experiments. You will write postprocessing codes to analyze experimental data. After initial training, you will have opportunities to propose and lead experimental campaigns. You will work closely with scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and impact future magnetized High Energy Density (HED) programs.

Theory/simulation: quantum computing for highly excited atoms

In plasma environment, atoms are excited and ionized. Understanding their properties requires modeling processes including bond-bond, bond-free, and free-free electronic transitions. Unlike usual atomic physics where only valence electrons matter, now the core and free electrons also participate. The number of transitions explodes exponentially as the atomic number increases, making quantum computers a prime candidate for carrying out ab initio simulations. In this role, you will develop theories and explore algorithms that may enable efficient quantum simulations.

Simulation: magnetized laser-plasma interactions (MagLPI)

In this role, you will learn about plasma physics, and use computer simulations to understand MagLPI. You will use existing software to generate and analyze data, with a focus on new situations that have not been studied. A successful summer internship will transition to an Honor thesis during the academic year. To be considered for the position, the student must have a good academic standing (GPA > 3.3), and have taken PHYS 1125, PHYS 2210 and PHYS 2600 (or equivalent) with A/A^-grades. Having knowledge of plasma physics is a plus but not required.

Theory: generalization of classical mechanics

In this role, you will explore what happens when some basic assumptions of classical mechanics are loosened. You will solve differential equations and analyze sensitivities of different assumptions. A successful summer internship will transition to an Honor thesis during the academic year. To be considered for the position, the student must have a good academic standing (GPA > 3.3) and have taken MATH 3430 and PHYS 3210 (or equivalent) with A/A^-grades. Having knowledge of general relativity and differential geometry is a plus but not required.

麻豆视频