CECAM Workshop - Designing Forcefields in an Age of Cheap Computing July 26, 2017 - July 28, 2017

FMD researchers Prof John Harding, Dr Colin Freeman and Dr Chris Handley recently won funding to host a workshop at the University of Sheffield, the topic being "Designing Forcefields in an Age of Cheap Computing", July 26, 2017 - July 28, 2017.

Robust, reliable forcefields are central to successful atomistic simulations. This workshop will bring together leading experts to discuss the impact of increasing computer power, both in terms of speed and data storage, on the development, validation and use of forcefields in molecular simulation.

Chris: As a researcher who has worked in the field of chemical simulation since my master project with Prof Paul Popelier, it is exciting to be able to host a workshop such as this, bringing together experts in atomistic simulations for all manner of materials and molecules, and to discuss the problems that still persist in traditional simulation methods, and how they might be addressed with cutting edge computing techniques. It should lead to lively discussions and some good insight into how such simulations can take advantage of modern computing power.

Invited speakers will also include experts in machine learning and GPU programming, who can give an informed perspective on modern HPC computing.

The workshop by its nature with feature keynote presentations, framing particular topics in chemical and materials simulations, with more open discussion forums between talks, allow groups to break off and tackle topics in more depth.

Short talks and posters are welcome.

Delegates will be hosted at Halifax Hall, located on the west side of Sheffield City Centre and only a short walk from Ecclesall Road, an area which provides a hub of bars, pubs and restaurants. It offers a great location for both business and leisure trips in Sheffield. Situated within The University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe student village it also offers the perfect place for visiting parents and prospective students to stay.

Local attractions include the picturesque Botanical Gardens, only five minutes away, whilst shopping and other city centre attractions are easily commutable by bus and taxi. Further afield the location offers great access to The Peak District National Park, which by car is only a 15 minute drive, whilst the stunning Chatsworth House is only a 30 minutes’ drive.