Introduction to Quantum Transport from edX

This course introduces the Schrödinger equation, using the tight-binding method to discuss the concept of bandstructure and E(k) relations, followed by an introduction to the NEGF method with simple illustrative examples. Concept of spinors is introduced along with the application of the NEGF method to spintronic devices.

No prior background in quantum mechanics or statistical mechanics is assumed.

Verified students taking this course will be required to complete three (3) proctored exams using the edX online Proctortrack software. To be sure your computer is compatible, see Proctortrack Technical Requirements.

Nanoscience and Technology MicroMasters ®

Introduction to Quantum Transport is one course in a growing suite of unique, one-credit-hour short courses developed in an edX/Purdue University collaboration. Students may elect to pursue a verified certificate for this specific course alone or as one of the six courses needed for the edX/Purdue MicroMasters® program in Nanoscience and Technology.

For further information and other courses offered, see the Nanoscience and Technology MicroMasters® page. Courses like this can also apply toward a Purdue University MSECE degree for students accepted into the full master’s program.

What you'll learn

The Schrödinger equation
How the tight-binding model works
The concept of bandstructure and E(k) relations
Self-energy
Broadening
NEGF equations
Dephasing

What's inside

Learning objectives

The schrödinger equation
How the tight-binding model works
The concept of bandstructure and e(k) relations
Self-energy

Broadening
Negf equations
Dephasing

The schrödinger equation
How the tight-binding model works
The concept of bandstructure and e(k) relations
Self-energy
Broadening
Negf equations
Dephasing

Syllabus

Week 3: Contact-ing Schrödinger & Examples

Week 5: Spin Transport

Week 1: Schrödinger Equation

1.1 Introduction1.2 Wave Equation1.3 Differential to Matrix Equation1.4 Dispersion Relation1.5 Counting States

Week 2: Schrödinger Equation (continued)1.6 Beyond 1D1.7 Lattice with a Basis1.8 Graphene1.9 Reciprocal Lattice/Valleys1.10 Summing Up

2.1 Introduction2.2 Semiclassical Model2.3 Quantum Model2.4 NEGF Equations2.5 Bonus Lecture, NOT covered on exams2.6 Scattering Theory

Week 4: Contact-ing Schrödinger & Examples (continued) 2.7 Transmission2.8 Resonant Tunneling2.9 Dephasing2.10 Summing Up3.1 Bonus Lecture, NOT covered on exams 3.2 Quantum Point Contact3.3 - 3.10 Bonus Lectures, NOT covered on exams

4.1 Introduction4.2 Magnetic Contacts4.3 Rotating Contacts4.4 Vectors and Spinors4.5 - 4.6 Bonus Lectures NOT covered on exams4.7 Spin Density/Current 4.8-4.10 Bonus Lectures NOT covered on exams

Text: S. Datta, “Lessons from Nanoelectronics”, Part B: Quantum Transport, World Scientific, Second Edition 2017The manuscript will be available for download in the course.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Quantum Transport will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Research Physicist

Research Physicists conduct a wide range of experiments to advance one's understanding of the fundamental nature of matter and energy. They may be involved in developing new theories or improving existing ones. Understanding quantum mechanics is essential to being an effective Research Physicist. Introduction to Quantum Transport provides a solid foundation in quantum transport concepts and is appropriate for complete beginners in the field. The course is mathematics-heavy and covers a variety of theories and equations that a Research Physicist would find useful in their work.

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Quantum Engineer

Quantum Engineers develop and test devices that use quantum mechanics to perform tasks that are impossible with classical computers. They may also work on developing new theories and algorithms for quantum computing. Introduction to Quantum Transport is a great way to break into or advance in the field of Quantum Engineering. The course provides a solid foundation in quantum mechanics that will help you to succeed in this rapidly growing field.

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Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists study the structure and properties of materials, and develop new materials with improved properties. They may also work on developing new ways to manufacture materials. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Materials Scientists who are interested in working with new materials for quantum computing or other applications.

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Electrical Engineer

Electrical Engineers design, develop, test, and supervise the installation of electrical systems and components. They may also work on developing new electrical technologies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Electrical Engineers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and test software applications. They may also work on developing new software technologies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Software Engineers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists design, develop, and test computer systems and applications. They may also work on developing new computer technologies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Computer Scientists who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret data to help businesses make better decisions. They may also work on developing new data analysis techniques. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Data Scientists who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Investment Banker

Investment Bankers help businesses raise capital and advise them on mergers and acquisitions. They may also work on developing new financial products. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Investment Bankers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for the development and launch of new products. They may also work on developing new product strategies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Product Managers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Management Consultant

Management Consultants help businesses improve their performance by providing advice on strategy, operations, and technology. They may also work on developing new management techniques. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Management Consultants who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. They may also work on developing new marketing strategies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Marketing Managers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Sales Manager

Sales Managers are responsible for leading and motivating sales teams. They may also work on developing new sales strategies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Sales Managers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts collect, analyze, and interpret financial data to help businesses make better decisions. They may also work on developing new financial models. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Financial Analysts who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Human Resources Manager

Human Resources Managers are responsible for managing the human resources department of a company. They may also work on developing new human resources strategies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Human Resources Managers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Operations Manager

Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a company. They may also work on developing new operations strategies. Introduction to Quantum Transport may be useful for Operations Managers who are interested in working with quantum computing or other applications of quantum mechanics.

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Introduction to Quantum Transport

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