Research Interests
In my research, I use computer simulations to understand the interior and evolution of giant planets. Materials in planetary interiors are exposed to extreme temperature and pressure conditions that cannot yet be reached with laboratory experiments. Instead we rely on highly accurate first-principles computer simulations techniques. With these methods, we recently explained why neon is depleted in Jupiter's atmosphere and provided strong, though indirect evidence for helium rain to occur in giant planets. Our recent simulations predict core erosion to occur in gas giant planets.
Furthermore I study materials in the deep mantle of our planet and compare my results with static and dynamic high pressure experiments. In some cases, computer simulations provide new insight into properties of materials that cannot be obtained with experiments. In other cases we use them to make predictions for the state of matter at these extreme pressures. Recent examples include fluid helium and water ice at megabar pressures.