Molecular Modelling

Postgraduate course

Course description

Objectives and Content

This course aims to introduce students to the principles and techniques of molecular modelling, with a focus on biomolecular applications. For students enrolled in the Civ. Eng. In Data Science program the successful completion of the course qualifies for 5 credits for physics and 5 credits for chemistry.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

  • has a general understanding of the concept of statistical mechanics ensembles
  • can identify the length and time scales suitable for molecular dynamics simulations
  • knows what a classical forcefield is and comprehends the possibilities and limitations of the classical approximation
    • forcefields of Class I (general form) vs Class II (cross-terms)
    • basis of forcefield parametrization
  • is familiar with key molecular dynamics concepts, such as integrators, periodic boundary conditions, and treatment of electrostatics
  • knows the principle of the Monte Carlo sampling
  • knows how to extract free energies from molecular simulations
  • understands the possibilities and limitations of docking approaches
  • is able to extract relevant molecular properties from simulations

Skills:

The student:

  • can explain the underlying chemical, physical, and mathematical principles of molecular modelling and simulation
  • selects and applies appropriate modelling approaches to different molecular systems
  • Set up and performs molecular dynamics simulations and docking searches using Unix/Linux
  • Analyzes simulation results and extracts meaningful information
  • Visualizes molecular structures and trajectories for learning purposes

General Competences:

The student is:

  • Able to reflect on the application of molecular modelling in addressing chemistry-related questions, and evaluate the suitability of modelling approaches for specific problems
  • Able to recognize theoretical frameworks in new simulation techniques

Semester of Instruction

Spring
Required Previous Knowledge
None
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, computer exercises using Python notebooks, reports.
Compulsory Assignments and Attendance
Compulsory work: Approved exercises. Approved exercises are valid for five following semesters.Compulsory work must be submitted within the given deadlines for the course. Approval of the compulsory work is necessary to get admittance to the written exam.
Forms of Assessment

The form of assessment is portofolio consisting by:

·         Approved tutorials during the semester, 20% of total grade.

·         Written examination (4 hours), 80% of total grade.

Grading Scale
The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest passing grade in the grading scale, grade F is a fail.
Assessment Semester
Examination both spring semester and autumn semester. In semesters without teaching the examination will be arranged at the beginning of the semester.]
Reading List
The reading list will be available within June 1st for the autumn semester and December 1st for the spring semester
Course Evaluation
The course will be evaluated by the students in accordance with the quality assurance system at UiB and the department
Examination Support Material
Examination support materials: Non- programmable calculator, according to model listed in faculty regulations.
Programme Committee
The Programme Committee is responsible for the content, structure and quality of the study programme and courses.