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FSI3400 Molecular Modelling 7.5 credits

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Headings with content from the Course syllabus FSI3400 (Spring 2009–) are denoted with an asterisk ( )

Content and learning outcomes

Course contents

Quantum chemistry: Single- and multiple electron systems. Ab initio-methods, Hartree-Fock equations, gaussian basis sets. Orbitals, calculation of partial charges, practical program usage.

Molecular force fields: Bonds, angles, torsions. Electrostatics and van der Waal forces, parameterisation from experiments or quantum chemistry. Effective pair potentials, hydrogen bonds. Computation of molecular properties and limitations, examples of commonly used force fields.

Energy landscapes: Minimizations, algorithms, normal modes, transition states and reaction pathways.

Simulation methods: Molecular dynamics, equilibration, thermodynamical properties from simulations, stochastic dynamics, energy conservation. Monte Carlo methods and conformational analysis.

Bioinformatics: Sequence analysis, protein structure, homology modeling, 3D structure prediction from sequence, chemoinformatics, combinatorial databases.

Advanced applications: Free energy calculations from simulations, free energy of solvation, chemical reactions, molecular docking, modern drug design with simulations and quantum chemistry.

Intended learning outcomes

After completed course, the PhD student should be able to:

  • explain atomic interactions from quantum chemistry and use quantum chemistry programs.
  • master molecular mechanics force fields, parameterization, and their limitations. They should further be able to carry out energy minimization and molecular dynamics simulations of simple systems.
  • critically choose between methods and modeling levels for water and protein applications.
  • have a basic understanding of bioinformatics, chemoinformatics, structure prediction and folding.
  • describe advanced molecular modeling methods such as free energy calculation and solvation energies. for small molecules, docking, and modern drug design applications.

Literature and preparations

Specific prerequisites

Differential equations, fourier transforms, thermodynamics, electrostatics, basic quantum mechanics and chemistry.

Recommended prerequisites

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Equipment

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Literature

Leach, A. R. Molecular modelling - principles and applications, 2nd ed., ISBN 0-582-38210-6

Examination and completion

If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.

Grading scale

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Examination

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Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.

The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.

Other requirements for final grade

Computer laborations and written exam.

Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination

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Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination

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Examiner

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Ethical approach

  • All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
  • In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
  • In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.

Further information

Course room in Canvas

Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas. A link to the course room can be found under the tab Studies in the Personal menu at the start of the course.

Offered by

Main field of study

This course does not belong to any Main field of study.

Education cycle

Third cycle

Add-on studies

No information inserted

Postgraduate course

Postgraduate courses at SCI/Physics