Scientific Computing

Scientists and engineers rely more than ever on computer modeling and simulation to guide their
experimental and design work. The infrastructure that supports this activity depends critically on the
development of new numerical algorithms that are reliable, efficient, and scalable. "Large N" is the
hallmark of modern, data-intensive scientific computing and it is a common thread that unifies
departmental research in numerical linear algebra, optimization, and partial differential equations.

Faculty and Researchers

David Bindel works on simulating microelectromechanical systems, numerical linear algebra, finite
element analysis, floating point computation and network tomography. His research involves software
design, mathematical analysis and physical modeling.
Doug James works on geometric and physical algorithms for computer animation and interactive and
scalable simulation, especially those for fast deformable models. Multi-sensory display of physical
systems is a long-term challenge involving real-time algorithms to support graphical display, haptic
force-feedback display, and auditory display of complex phenomena.
Charlie Van Loan works in numerical linear and multilinear algebra. A recurring theme in his current
research is the development of efficient techniques for matrix problems that involve Kronecker
products and multiple symmeties. He has written several texts including Matrix Computations (with
Gene Golub), Introduction to Scientific Computing, andComputational Frameworks for the Fast Fourier
Transform.

Applied Mathematics
The scientific computing group is also active in the Applied Mathematics Ph.D. program, which is part
of Cornell's Center for Applied Mathematics. Prospective Ph.D. applicants interested in the
mathematical aspects of scientific computing may wish to consider that graduate field as well.

Related Research
In addition to the core faculty mentioned above, we have several colleagues who work in related
areas:
Kavita Bala performs research on scalable graphics for high-complexity scenes. Emphasis is on
feature-based graphics, real-time global illumination, perceptually-based rendering, image-based
rendering and texturing.
Steve Marschner focuses on high-quality rendering with an emphasis on accurate models for the
appearance of everyday materials. Analytical and numerical calculations of light reflection and
radiative transport are key elements of his research.
Ramin Zabih applies combinatorial and numerical algorithms to problems in computer vision and
medical imaging.