4:00–5:00 pm
Jones 303 5747 S. Ellis Avenue
One of the grand challenges in modern science is the accurate treatment of interacting quantum many-electron problems. Monte Carlo approaches form a pillar in the computational repertoire to treat such problems. Solutions to the many-dimensional Schrödinger equation can be formulated as random walks, in electron coordinate space, or in the manifold of Slater determinants. We give an overview of such approaches, and discuss the challenges in reconciling quantum mechanics and statistics. Recent progress suggests many opportunities for interdisciplinary synergy at the interface of mathematical developments, algorithm and software, and diverse domain areas. As example applications, we highlight a recent effort to understand the physics of the Hubbard model in the context of high-temperature superconductivity, and ab initio quantum chemistry for transition metal molecules.