Details of CH4114 (Autumn 2022)

Level: 4 Type: Theory Credits: 4.0

Course CodeCourse NameInstructor(s)
CH4114 Simulations of Biomolecular Systems Neelanjana Sengupta

Preamble
Preamble: This course will introduce concepts and methods underlying molecular dynamics
simulations of multi-component (bio)molecular systems. It should equip one with skills for designing meaningful simulations, data analysis and benchmarking with experimental
observations. The course will involve a simulation project in the latter half (*).
* The total number of participants will be limited.

Syllabus
1. Introduction to Molecular Simulations
a. History of development
b. Bottoms-up approach: the Computational Microscope

2. Statistical mechanics background
a. Microscopic and macroscopic parameters
b. Phase space and Ensembles
c. Equilibrium and ergodicity

3. The MD engine
a. Empirical potentials: the Force Field
b. Many-body equations of motion; numerical solutions
c. Thermodynamic control: thermostats and barostats
d. Periodic boundary conditions; attaining the thermodynamic limit

4. Standard analysis toolbox
a. Static vs. dynamic quantities
b. Structural analysis

5. Transitions in free energy landscapes
a. Local and global minima; transition states
b. Collective variables; enhanced sampling

6. Project:
a. System setup and simulation
b. Identification of equilibrium
c. Data analysis

Prerequisite
Basic understanding of thermodynamics and biomolecular structure. Working knowledge of Linux

Suitability: Senior BS-MS students; IPhD students; Research
Scholar from both DCS and DBS

References
References:

1. Computer Simulations of Liquids, M.P Allen and D.J Tildesley (Oxford)
2. Understanding Molecular Simulation: D. Frenkel and B. Smit (Elsevier)
3. The Art of Molecular Dynamics Simulations: D. C. Rapaport (Cambridge)
4. Additional material will be provided

Course Credit Options

Sl. No.ProgrammeSemester NoCourse Choice
1 IP 1 Not Allowed
2 IP 3 Elective
3 IP 5 Elective
4 MR 1 Not Allowed
5 MR 3 Not Allowed
6 MS 3 Not Allowed
7 MS 5 Not Allowed
8 MS 7 Elective
9 MS 9 Elective
10 RS 1 Elective
11 RS 2 Elective