Of science and scientists in QTP

Abstract

Aspects of the science and the ways of doing science characteristic of the two senior scientists of Quantum Theory Project (QTP) in the period 1969–1985 are discussed from the perspective of the only QTP faculty member of that era who did not grow up in either the Löwdin or Slater schools.

Keywords:

• quantum theory of matter
• electronic structure
• density functional theory
• APW method

Acknowledgements

Except for the computer and Latin American Workshop bits, I have said nothing about the second (Henk Monkhorst, Rod Bartlett, and Mike Zerner, then Erik Deumens), third (Hai-Ping Cheng and Jeffrey Krause) and fourth (Adrian Roitberg, So Hirata, and Kennie Merz) generations of QTP faculty. That would require writing a history (as well as being more thorough about the earlier folk). But let there be no doubt; I have benefitted from each and every one of these colleagues. The same is true of the many students, post-doctoral associates and collaborators from whose intellect and labour I have benefitted over 40+ years with QTP. Narrating their contributions (and telling stories about them) would require a full scientific biography, not this note. That does not diminish my gratitude and appreciation. I hope you all know that. I am especially grateful to Rod Bartlett for having envisioned this volume, for having the stamina to see it through and for having invited me to be co-editor.