Duration: 2 weeks
Sponsors: University of Ghana, Psi-k
Organizers:
- Prof. G. Gebreyesus (University of Ghana, Ghana)
- Dr. Iurii Timrov (Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland)
- Prof. Michele Pavanello (Rutgers University, USA)
Lecturers and tutors:
- Prof. G. Gebreyesus (University of Ghana, Ghana)
- Dr. Iurii Timrov (Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland)
- Prof. Michele Pavanello (Rutgers University, USA)
- Prof. Javier Junquera (Universidad de Cantabria, Spain)
- Dr. Jose J. Baldoví (University of Valencia, Spain)
- Ms. Valeria Rios Vargas (Rutgers University, USA)
- Mr. Stefan Schären (Paul Scherrer Institute, Switzerland)
Abstract and objectives:
The “mini-ASESMA school: Atomistic and quantum simulation of materials” is a focused regional training event designed to build and reinforce local expertise in the field of quantum-mechanical and atomistic simulations of materials. This initiative builds upon the success of the African School on Electronic Structure Methods and Applications (ASESMA), which has been held biennially since 2010 in different African countries. ASESMA provides advanced training in electronic structure theory and its applications to materials science, bridging the gap between cutting-edge computational techniques and students and researchers from across the African continent.
The mini-ASESMA school will be held at the University of Ghana and will bring together highly motivated students, primarily from the University of Ghana and the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, as well as from other institutions, depending on the availability of additional funding. Unlike the full-scale ASESMA schools (which typically span two weeks, host over 50 participants, and cover a broad range of topics) this regional edition will focus on in-depth instruction in a smaller, more interactive setting. The mini-ASESMA aims to provide a deep and thorough understanding of the foundations of density-functional theory (DFT), density-functional perturbation theory (DFPT), and time-dependent density-functional theory (TDDFT) along with hands-on experience in applying these methods using open-source codes such as Quantum ESPRESSO.
The mini-ASESMA will offer significant benefits over larger-scale events:
- It allows for slower-paced, in-depth instruction, giving students time to grasp theoretical concepts, work through derivations, solve exercises, and engage in extended computer-based tutorials;
- It provides ample opportunity for one-on-one interaction between students and instructors, enabling tailored mentoring and feedback;
- It reduces logistical complexity and cost, making it more agile and easier to organize without requiring the large financial and administrative resources needed for full ASESMA schools.
Objectives of the mini-ASESMA school:
- Deliver high-quality, in-depth training in quantum and atomistic simulations of materials to a small cohort of students, empowering them with skills that are directly applicable to their current and future research;
- Strengthen scientific capacity by nurturing a new generation of African scientists who can become future trainers within their institutions, ultimately contributing to the long-term sustainability of computational materials science education in the region;
- Complement the broader ASESMA initiative by addressing knowledge gaps that are difficult to fill in the faster-paced, large-scale schools. Students trained in mini-ASESMA events will be better prepared to fully benefit from, and even contribute to, future full ASESMA schools;
- Promote cross-continental collaboration and exchange, encouraging enduring scientific relationships between African institutions and international researchers, and fostering opportunities for future joint research projects, mentorship, and mobility.
The mini-ASESMA school is officially supported by the ASESMA Executive and Planning Committees, including leading figures such as Prof. Richard Martin (Stanford University, USA), Prof. Nithaya Chetty (University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa), and Dr. Nicola Seriani (ICTP, Italy), who recognize its strategic value in maintaining momentum between full ASESMA editions. By centering on Ghana and neighboring countries, where the latest full ASESMA took place, the school leverages local infrastructure, enthusiasm, and continuity to strengthen the lasting impact of the ASESMA mission.
This event represents a highly cost-effective, targeted, and sustainable effort to promote excellence in computational materials science in Africa. It is a concrete step toward building a self-sufficient ecosystem of education, research, and collaboration rooted in international best practices and adapted to local contexts.