Undergraduate Research at VU - Summer 2008

SUMMER RESEARCH ASSISTANT IN

COMPUTATIONAL CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS

VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:  It is anticipated that there will be an opportunity this summer (2008) for one student to work as a research assistant with Prof. Zygmunt.  The research project involves the theoretical calculation of equilibrium geometries and reaction energies for hydrocarbon molecules undergoing oxidative dehydrogenation with vanadium oxide catalyst materials. 

LOCATION:  Most of the work will be done on the VU campus, but weekly trips to Argonne National Laboratory in Argonne, IL are anticipated during the summer to attend research group meetings.

REQUIREMENTS:  Most of the work will be computer related.  Basic knowledge of the UNIX/LINUX operating system is desirable.  College-level courses in chemistry are a plus, although not required.  The applicant’s availability for 1-2 hours/week of training beginning in April will enhance his/her candidacy.  The assistant will be assigned readings in computational quantum mechanics and catalysis, and will be expected to prepare a formal written research progress report by the end of the summer.

DATES & STIPEND:  The summer appointment will be for 10-11 weeks, with an anticipated starting date of June 2.  Slightly different starting dates or work periods may be possible.  The salary will be $370 per week.  It is anticipated that housing at VU will be awarded by the university.  The student will be expected to register for 1 credit of Physics 492 (Research or Reading in Physics).

APPLICATION & DEADLINE:  Applications can be obtained from the Department of Physics and Astronomy web site at

www.physics.valpo.edu/degreePrograms/underResearch/

Interested applicants are encouraged to turn in completed applications as soon as possible.  The deadline for completed applications is Wednesday, 26 February 2008.  Evaluation of the applications will take place during the following few weeks, and applicants will be notified by early April.  Please see Prof. Zygmunt or contact him electronically (stan.zygmunt@valpo.edu) if you have questions about the position.