Professional Background

Current position

Associate Professor of Physics in the Department of Physics
University Professor, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA

Other places I have worked for

Tulane University (New Orleans, LA)
Paul Sabatier University (Toulouse, France)
Troitsk Institute of Innovative and Thermonuclear Research (Russia)
Kurchatov Institute of Atomic Energy (Moscow, USSR)

Education

Ph.D. Physics, Moscow State University (1984)
M.S., Physics, Moscow State University (1979)

Research Interests

Physics education: problem solving in physics (current)
Ionization of atoms by neutron impact (current)
Dynamic of electron correlation in atomic systems
Double electron transitions by particle impact
Sputtering of large clusters by particle bombardment
Accelerator Science (multiple projects)
Atomic data for plasma diagnostics and modeling

Books

Computational Physics: From Equations to Simulation

by Alexander Godunov

Forthcoming from World Scientific (2027)

Computational Physics: From Equations to Simulation is a comprehensive textbook that guides readers through the full process of computational problem solving, from the formulation of a physical problem and selection of an appropriate mathematical model to numerical implementation, validation, and interpretation of the resulting simulations.

The book introduces computational tools, workflow, numerical errors, and uncertainty, and then develops the principal methods of scientific computation, including interpolation, numerical differentiation and integration, linear systems, eigenvalue problems, ordinary differential equations, nonlinear equations, Monte Carlo methods, optimization, and data fitting. Later chapters introduce molecular dynamics, parallel and high-performance computing, and artificial intelligence and machine learning in physics.

The presentation emphasizes physical understanding, practical implementation, numerical stability, accuracy, verification, and critical interpretation rather than treating algorithms as isolated procedures. The book is intended primarily for upper-level undergraduate and beginning graduate students in physics and related disciplines. Companion source codes in MATLAB, Python, C++, and Fortran will be provided through the book website.

Pragmatic Mathematics for Scientists and Engineers

by Alexander Godunov and John A. Adam

World Scientific ISBN: 978-9811291333 (2024) ISBN: 978-9811291333 (hardcover)

This is a textbook on basic to intermediate mathematics for undergraduate students majoring in the physical sciences and engineering. Many chapters, covering topics like Green's functions, calculus of variations, and functions of a complex variable, are well-suited for graduate classes. Additionally, researchers can benefit from the book as a mathematical refresher for their professional work.

The book provides readers with a fundamental understanding of underlying principles, using derivations based more on mathematical intuition rather than exposing them to multiple theorems, proofs, and lemmas. Each chapter includes highly relevant examples with detailed solutions and explanations, promoting a practical application of knowledge to real problems in the physical sciences. For the convenience of both students and instructors, there are end-of-chapter exercises with answers that can be easily utilized for assignments.

The book is not a replacement for calculus textbooks, but rather a guide to the mathematics most relevant to the physical sciences and engineering.

In conclusion, this book can be readily adapted for upper-level undergraduate and graduate classes, particularly those focusing on mathematical methods for students in physical sciences, applied mathematics, and engineering majors.

Introductory Computational Physics

by Andi Klein and Alexander Godunov

Cambridge University Press: ISBN 978-0521828628 (2006) ISBN: 978-0521828628 (hardcover)

Computers are one of the most important tools available to physicists, whether for calculating and displaying results, simulating experiments, or solving complex systems of equations. Introducing students to computational physics, this textbook, first published in 2006, shows how to use computers to solve mathematical problems in physics and teaches students about choosing different numerical approaches. It also introduces students to many of the programs and packages available. The book relies solely on free software: the operating system chosen is Linux, which comes with an excellent C++ compiler, and the graphical interface is the ROOT package available for free from CERN. This broad scope textbook is suitable for undergraduates starting on computational physics courses. It includes exercises and many examples of programs. Online resources at www.cambridge.org/0521828627 feature additional reference information, solutions, and updates on new techniques, software and hardware used in physics..

Talk on problem solving

"Problem Solving: Art, Science, and Craft" (October 2nd, 2015)
Problem solving is one of the most practical skills a student could learn if they are studying towards a career in science, engineering, business, or politics. Most importantly, it is also an essential skill that can be leveraged in everyday life. Unfortunately, although most school and college curriculums place considerable emphasis on teaching critical thinking, it is just the first step in mastering the art of problem solving. But how can one take this incredibly powerful but elusive skill, break it down into a number of identifiable steps, and teach to others?