Theoretical Physics with Focus on Complex Fluids

Students are highly welcome to write their Bachelor or Master thesis within our group!

Typically, topics are chosen along ongoing (PhD or postdoc) research projects in our group. Of course, other suggestions related to your own research are welcome as well.

If you are interested in writing your Bachelor or Master thesis in our group, please contact Prof. Dr. Sabine Klapp. Feel free to ask us your questions via e-mail. Or just stop by!

Possible research topics

Master:

Finite-time time dynamical phase transition in entropy production rate?
Recently, finite-time dynamical transitions have become a focus of growing interest in both, classical statistical mechanics and in quantum systems. The present master project is concerned with the occurrence, and associated thermodynamic signatures, of finite-time time dynamical phase transitions in nonequilibrium classical systems under an external drive. Specifically, we will consider two paradigmatic model systems, namely a one-dimensional random walk with asymmetric rates, and a driven colloidal particle on a periodic potential. A key quantity of the investigations will be the time-dependent entropy production rate and its fluctuations. The project combines various concepts from non-equilibrium statistical physics including theory of stochastic processes, stochastic thermodynamics, and large deviation theory. The actual investigations involve analytical calculations based on stochastic differential equations and discrete Master equations, as well as corresponding numerical methods (stochastic simulations).
More information.

Contact: Dr. Jan Meibohm, Prof. Dr. Sabine Klapp

Please have a look at the individual webpages of the group members for more detailed information!