FYS9180 – Condensed Matter Field Theory
Course content
The course gives an introduction to the application of field theory in condensed matter systems. In particular, the study of quantum phase transitions, the renormalization group, response functions and topological properties using quantum field theory. The course gives an introduction to the application of field theory in condensed matter systems. In particular, the study of quantum phase transitions, the renormalization group, response functions and topological properties using quantum field theory.
Learning outcome
After completing the course, the students:
- will know the basic structure of a field theory and how it can be applied to condensed matter systems.
- will know the path integral formulation of quantum mechanics and the application of this to field theories.
- will know about quantum phase transitions and symmetry breaking.
- will know how the theory can be used to calculate response functions, and how these relate to different experimental probes.
- will know the concept of the renormalisation group and flow of coupling constants, including the understanding of relevant and irrelevant operators, and how this is applied to the study of universality in magnetic systems and the superconducting instability in fermionic systems.
- will know about the existence of topological terms and the consequences, in particular how this relates to the quantum Hall effect.
Admission to the course
PhD candidates from the University of Oslo should apply for classes and register for examinations through?Studentweb.
If a course has limited intake capacity, priority will be given to PhD candidates who follow an individual education plan where this particular course is included. Some national researchers’ schools may have specific rules for ranking applicants for courses with limited intake capacity.
PhD candidates who have been admitted to another higher education institution must?apply for a position as a visiting student?within a given deadline.
Recommended previous knowledge
- FYS4430 – Condensed Matter Physics II
- FYS4110 – Modern Quantum Mechanics or similar courses
Teaching
The course is offered as a self study.
Examination
- Final oral exam which counts 100 % towards the final?grade.
Examination support material
No examination support material is allowed.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a pass/fail scale. Read more about?the grading system.
Resit an examination
This course offers both postponed and resit of examination. Read more:
More about examinations at UiO
- Use of sources and citations
- How to use AI as a student
- Special exam arrangements due to individual needs
- Withdrawal from an exam
- Illness at exams / postponed exams
- Explanation of grades and appeals
- Resitting an exam
- Cheating/attempted cheating
You will find further guides and resources at the web page on examinations at UiO.