Applied Physics

Faculty of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Offering Instruction in Applied Physics

Joanna Aizenberg, Gordon McKay Professor of Materials Science
Michael J. Aziz, Gordon McKay Professor of Materials Science
David C. Bell, Lecturer on Applied Physics (spring term only)
Michael P. Brenner, Glover Professor of Applied Mathematics and Applied Physics, Tutor in Biochemical Sciences
Federico Capasso, Robert L. Wallace Professor of Applied Physics
Kenneth B. Crozier, Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering on the Gordon McKay Endowment
Cynthia M. Friend, Theodore William Richards Professor of Chemistry and Professor of Materials Science
Jene A. Golovchenko, Rumford Professor of Physics and Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics
Fawwaz Habbal, Senior Lecturer on Applied Physics
Donhee Ham, John L. Loeb Associate Professor of the Natural Sciences
Lene V. Hau, Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics and of Applied Physics
Efthimios Kaxiras, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Zhiming Kuang, Assistant Professor of Climate Science
Charles M. Lieber, Mark Hyman, Jr. Professor of Chemistry
Marko Loncar, Assistant Professor of Electrical Engineering on the Gordon McKay Endowment
Vinothan N. Manoharan, Assistant Professor of Physics and Chemical Engineering
Eric Mazur, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics
Venkatesh Narayanamurti, John A. and Elizabeth S. Armstrong Professor of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Professor of Physics
Daniel Joseph Needleman, Assistant Professor of Applied Physics (SEAS) and of Molecular and Cellular Biology (FAS)
David R. Nelson, Arthur K. Soloman Professor of Biophysics and Professor of Physics and Applied Physics
Peter S. Pershan, Frank B. Baird, Jr. Professor of Science (on leave spring term)
Shriram Ramanathan, Assistant Professor of Materials Science on the Gordon McKay Endowment
James R. Rice, Mallinckrodt Professor of Engineering Sciences and Geophysics
Frans A. Spaepen, John C. and Helen F. Franklin Professor of Applied Physics (on leave spring term)
Howard A. Stone, Vicky Joseph Professor of Engineering and Applied Mathematics (on leave spring term)
Patrick Thaddeus, Robert Wheeler Willson Professor of Applied Astronomy
Eli Tziperman, Pamela and Vasco McCoy, Jr. Professor of Oceanography and Applied Physics
David A. Weitz, Mallinckrodt Professor of Physics and of Applied Physics (on leave 2008-09)
Robert M. Westervelt, Mallinckrodt Professor of Applied Physics and of Physics
Tai T. Wu, Gordon McKay Professor of Applied Physics and Professor of Physics (on leave spring term)

Other Faculty Offering Instruction in Applied Physics

Eugene A. Demler, Professor of Physics

The School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (www.seas.harvard.edu) offers undergraduate and graduate courses in Applied Mathematics, Applied Physics, Computer Science, Earth and Planetary Sciences, and Engineering Sciences. Engineering and Applied Sciences faculty also offer several courses in the section entitled Freshman Seminars, Extra-Departmental Courses, and House Seminars.

For Undergraduates and Graduates

[Applied Physics 190. Materials Physics]
Catalog Number: 1087
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Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Introduces undergraduates in engineering and physics to the scientific basis of our understanding of the structure and properties of materials. Topics to be covered include chemical bonding and its relation to structure; crystallography; diffraction; defects in crystals and their effects on material behavior; electrical, thermal and mechanical properties.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Thermodynamics (Engineering Sciences 181, Physics 181, or equivalent), Physics 11a and b, or Physics 15a and b, and Applied Mathematics 21a and b or Mathematics 21a and b.

Applied Physics 195. Introduction to Solid State Physics
Catalog Number: 1842
Robert M. Westervelt
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Fundamental physical properties of crystalline solids discussed in terms of the basic principles of classical and quantum physics. Crystal structure, lattice vibrations, specific heat, energy band theory of metals and semiconductors and insulators, electrical transport in metals and semiconductors, optical and magnetic properties, superconductivity.
Note: Designed as a first course in solid state physics for students with knowledge of elementary quantum mechanics (Physics 143a). Some knowledge of statistical physics (Physics 181) is also helpful, but not a formal prerequisite. Students who propose to take Applied Physics 295a in the spring term, and who have not previously taken a formal course in solid state physics, are strongly advised to take this course first. Students may wish to take Physics 195, whose content is very similar, when this course is bracketed.

Cross-Listed Courses

Applied Mathematics 147. Nonlinear Dynamical Systems
[Earth and Planetary Sciences 131. Introduction to Physical Oceanography and Climate]

Primarily for Graduates

Additional courses of interest to graduate students in Applied Physics include: Applied Mathematics 203, Engineering Sciences 220, 225r, 240, 241, 242r, 246, 247, and 274.


Applied Physics 216. Modern Optics and Quantum Electronics
Catalog Number: 4691
Lene V. Hau
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Optical systems and lasers have recently revolutionized both technology and basic research. We cover the fundamental physics, and topics include Fourier optics, optical cavities and lasers. Non-linear optics. Optics with nanostructures. Optics for bio-molecule studies.
Prerequisite: A class in electromagnetism/electrodynamics.

[Applied Physics 217. Applications of Modern Optics]
Catalog Number: 6965
Lene V. Hau
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Optics in biology, single-molecule studies. Polymerase/DNA, optical trapping of molecules, Raman spectroscopy, 2-photon microscopy for brain studies and cell imaging. Nano-optics. Atom interferometry, navigational gyroscopes. Frequency combs, atom clocks, global positioning system.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: A course in electromagnetism.

Applied Physics 218. Electrical, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Materials
Catalog Number: 9804
Shriram Ramanathan
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Classical and quantum description of electrical, optical and magnetic properties, and their fundamental physical origins; experimental techniques. Properties of compositionally complex materials such as ceramics. Structure-property relations. Applications in semiconductor, information storage, energy industries.
Prerequisite: Introductory solid-state physics or equivalent course.

[Applied Physics 225. Introduction to Soft Matter]
Catalog Number: 5298
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Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Introduction to soft condensed matter, or “complex fluids,” including polymers, colloids, liquid crystals, and biological structures. Emphasis on physical principles that govern bulk behavior. Students will understand the concepts, experimental techniques, and open questions.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Knowledge of thermodynamics with basic statistical mechanics and some familiarity with Fourier transforms and differential equations.

Applied Physics 235. Chemistry in Materials Science and Engineering - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 5081
Joanna Aizenberg
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Select topics in materials chemistry, focusing on chemical bonds, crystal chemistry, organic and polymeric materials, hybrid materials, nanochemistry, surfaces and interfaces, colloidal chemistry, self-assembly, electrochemistry, biomaterials, and bio-inspired materials synthesis.
Prerequisite: Introductor thermodynamics, chemistry or equivalent.

Applied Physics 282. Solids: Structure and Defects
Catalog Number: 5737
Frans A. Spaepen
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
Bonding, crystallography, diffraction, phase diagrams, microstructure, point defects, dislocations, grain boundaries.
Note: Intended for students in applied mechanics, materials science, condensed matter physics, and chemistry.

[Applied Physics 284. Statistical Thermodynamics]
Catalog Number: 2257
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Half course (fall term). M., W., F., at 11. EXAM GROUP: 4
Basic principles of statistical physics and thermodynamics, with applications including: the equilibrium properties of classical and quantum gases; phase diagrams, phase transitions and critical points, as illustrated by the gas-liquid transition and simple magnetic models; Bose-Einstein condensation.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10. Students may wish to take Physics 262 when this course is bracketed.
Prerequisite: Ordinarily, Physics 143a,b and Physics 181 or Engineering Sciences 181.

Applied Physics 291. Electron Microscopy Laboratory
Catalog Number: 1761 Enrollment: Limited to 15.
David C. Bell
Half course (spring term). M., 2–3:30, and a 3-hour laboratory session to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
Lectures and laboratory instruction on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and microanalysis. Students perform experiments with the TEM including; diffraction, dark field imaging, X-ray spectroscopy, atomic imaging, materials sample preparation, polymers and biological samples.
Note: Primarily for graduate students planning to use materials analysis in their research.

Applied Physics 292. Kinetics of Condensed Phase Processes
Catalog Number: 3733
Michael J. Aziz
Half course (spring term). M., W., F., at 11, and occasional laboratory to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 4
Kinetic principles underlying atomic motions, transformations, and other atomic transport processes in condensed phases. Application to atomic diffusion, continuous phase transformations, nucleation, growth, coarsening, and other kinetic phenomena in bulk, thin film, and surface states.
Prerequisite: An undergraduate-level course in thermodynamics.

[Applied Physics 293. Deformation of Solids]
Catalog Number: 6796
Frans A. Spaepen
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 8:30–10. EXAM GROUP: 10, 11
Phenomenology and theory of the mechanisms by which solids can deform, including elastic deformation, microscopic dislocation glide and the kinetics of slip, dislocation and diffusional creep; deformation mechanism maps; fracture.
Note: Expected to be given in 2009–10.
Prerequisite: Knowledge of thermodynamics and elements of crystal structure.

*Applied Physics 294hfr. Materials Science Seminar
Catalog Number: 4924
Frans A. Spaepen and Michael J. Aziz
Half course (throughout the year). Th., at 1. EXAM GROUP: 15
Special topics in materials science.
Prerequisite: Consult with course heads.

Applied Physics 295a. Introduction to Quantum Theory of Solids
Catalog Number: 6937
Efthimios Kaxiras
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Properties of solids, electrical, optical, thermal, magnetic, mechanical, are treated based on an atomic scale picture and using the single electron approximation. Metals, semiconductors, and insulators are covered, including special topics such as superconductivity.
Prerequisite: Applied Physics 195 or equivalent, and one full quantum mechanics graduate level course similar to Physics 251a. Physics 251b may be taken concurrently.

Applied Physics 295b. Quantum Theory of Solids
Catalog Number: 3610
Eugene A. Demler
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 10–11:30. EXAM GROUP: 12, 13
Theoretical description of solids focusing on the effects of interactions between electrons, including dielectric response, magnetism, and superconductivity. Subjects from the physics of strongly correlated systems of ultracold atoms will also be considered.
Prerequisite: Applied Physics 295a, Physics 251a and 251b, or permission of instructor.

Applied Physics 298r. Interdisciplinary Chemistry, Engineering and Physics: Seminar
Catalog Number: 7500
Fawwaz Habbal and members of the Faculty
Half course (spring term). M., W., 12–1:30. EXAM GROUP: 5, 6
Lectures on Nanoscale Science and Engineering will present the fundamental concepts, with examples from current research in three areas: Tools for Integrated Nanobiology, Nano Building Blocks, and Imagining at the Nanoscale.
Note: A paper and oral presentation will be required. In 2009, Nanoscale Science and Engineering Research will be presented.

Applied Physics 299r. Special Topics in Applied Physics
Catalog Number: 2103
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Half course (fall term; repeated spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Supervision of experimental or theoretical research on acceptable applied physics problems and supervision of reading on topics not covered by regular courses of instruction.
Note: Open to graduate students and AB/SM candidates only. Students must arrange such work with a member of the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. This course is graded and is ordinarily taken with the approval of the Committee on Higher Degrees. Applicants must file a project sheet before study cards are filed. Project sheets may be obtained from the Academic Office, Pierce Hall 110.

Cross-Listed Courses

Physics 232 (formerly Physics 232a). Advanced Classical Electromagnetism

Graduate Courses of Reading and Research

Reading courses are odd-numbered; research courses are even-numbered.

*Applied Physics 301,302. Ultrafast Electronic Devices
Catalog Number: 6859,6068
Donhee Ham 4519

*Applied Physics 303,304. Materials Science of Biological Inorganic Nanostructures
Catalog Number: 3564,9306
Joanna Aizenberg 5876

*Applied Physics 323,324. Topics in Materials Science
Catalog Number: 5947,5970
Shriram Ramanathan 5341

*Applied Physics 325,326. Optics with Cold Atoms, Nano-structures, and Bio-molecules
Catalog Number: 0488,7669
Lene V. Hau 2151

*Applied Physics 331,332. Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
Catalog Number: 0467,1560
Robert M. Westervelt 6148

*Applied Physics 333,334. Electronic Properties of Nanostructures, Interaction of Biomolecules with Nanostructures, and X-Ray Physics
Catalog Number: 1033,6126
Jene A. Golovchenko 1986

*Applied Physics 335,336. Theoretical Study of the Structure and Electronic Properties of Nanoscale Materials and Biological Macromolecules
Catalog Number: 7902,7903
Efthimios Kaxiras 3050

*Applied Physics 337,338. Growth and Properties of Nanostructures and Nanostructure Assemblies; Development and Application of New Probe Microscopies; Biophysics
Catalog Number: 3050,3051
Charles M. Lieber 3102

*Applied Physics 339,340. Topics in Electromagnetic Theory
Catalog Number: 4258,3127
Tai T. Wu 1051 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 341,342. Nano-Lasers and Single-Photon Sources
Catalog Number: 1441,0650
Marko Loncar 5703

*Applied Physics 343,344. Topics in Electromagnetic Theory and Molecular Spectroscopy
Catalog Number: 2695,4213
Patrick Thaddeus 1398

*Applied Physics 347,348. Mechanics in Earth and Environmental Science
Catalog Number: 4033,3514
James R. Rice 7270

*Applied Physics 351,352. Statistical and Condensed Matter Theory
Catalog Number: 3992,3993
Paul C. Martin 2103 (on leave fall term)

*Applied Physics 355,356. Special Topics in Theoretical Engineering
Catalog Number: 4864,9197
Michael P. Brenner 4101

*Applied Physics 357,358. Nanophotonics
Catalog Number: 3865,5593
Kenneth B. Crozier 5146

*Applied Physics 359,360. Nonlinear Laser Physics and Materials Engineering
Catalog Number: 5760,3525
Eric Mazur 7952

*Applied Physics 361,362. Photonics, Quantum Devices and Nanostructures
Catalog Number: 9431,9506
Federico Capasso 4571

*Applied Physics 363,364. Experimental Soft Condensed Matter Physics
Catalog Number: 8975,7242
David A. Weitz 2497 (on leave 2008-09)

*Applied Physics 365,366. Experimental Condensed Matter: Ballistic Transport in Semiconductors, Nanostructures, and Tunneling Microscopy
Catalog Number: 9195,0425
Venkatesh Narayanamurti 5445

*Applied Physics 367,368. Topics on Condensed Matter Physics
Catalog Number: 6975,4173
David R. Nelson 5066

*Applied Physics 369,370. Experimental Condensed Matter: Synchrotron X-Ray Scattering Studies of Interfacial Phenomena (Liquids and Solid)
Catalog Number: 2442,7532
Peter S. Pershan 1105 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 381,382. Special Topics in Fluid Dynamics
Catalog Number: 4554,2668
Howard A. Stone 2073 (on leave spring term)

*Applied Physics 383,384. Topics in Atmospheric and Climate Dynamics
Catalog Number: 3214,3221
Zhiming Kuang 5285

*Applied Physics 387,388. Climate Dynamics and Physical Oceanography
Catalog Number: 3549,8599
Eli Tziperman 4748

*Applied Physics 391,392. Experimental Soft Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Catalog Number: 1164,5559
Vinothan N. Manoharan 5251

*Applied Physics 393,394. Experimental Studies of Interfaces and Surfaces
Catalog Number: 1331,5451
Cynthia M. Friend 7446

*Applied Physics 395,396. Topics in Materials Science
Catalog Number: 4012,5003
Michael J. Aziz 1337

*Applied Physics 397,398. Materials Science
Catalog Number: 4266,5010
Frans A. Spaepen 4991 (on leave spring term)