Ruqian Wu, Professor, Dept. of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine. 

Using density functional approach and model simulations, physical properties of many systems can be reliably predicted and explained. In this talk, I will discuss examples of our recent theoretical studies, from quantum spin states of magnetic molecules, the design of topological materials, to nanostructures and catalysis. More explicitly, I will discuss the effect of spin-vibration coupling on spin decoherence in small systems such as single magnetic molecule or atom.   For topological materials, I will focus on the manipulation of corner states of high order topological insulators with magnetic and electric fields. For chemistry and nanoscience, I will discuss single atom catalysis and related topics. Most results will be discussed along with experimental data from collaborators.