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Richard G. Palmer

Professor Emeritus of Physics
Physics
Box 90305, Durham, NC 27708-0305
091 Physics Bldg, Durham, NC 27708

Overview


Professor Richard G. Palmer is currently working on theories of statistical mechanics. He is interested in the application and development of statistical physics methods for many types of complex systems, including glasses and spin glasses, neural networks, genetic algorithms, and economic markets. The long-term goal of his work is to establish firm theoretical foundations for understanding the emergence of structure, complexity, and computational ability in driven systems of interacting adaptive components. He is also author of two books on the theory of neural networks and on the theory of extinction.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor Emeritus of Physics · 2015 - Present Physics, Trinity College of Arts & Sciences

Recent Publications


Introduction to the theory of neural computation

Book · January 1, 2018 Comprehensive introduction to the neural network models currently under intensive study for computational applications. It also provides coverage of neural network applications in a variety of problems of both theoretical and practical interest. ... Full text Cite

Statistical mechanics approaches to complex optimization problems

Chapter · January 1, 2018 In recent years a number of methods developed in statistical mechanics have been applied to complex optimization problems. The results tend to be more in the form of general theorems and bounds than specific results for particular problems. They are noneth ... Full text Cite

Optimization on Rugged Landscapes

Chapter · January 1, 2018 This chapter reviews the notion of a landscape, a discussion of types and properties of landscapes, a description of some models for rugged landscapes, and finally a review of some novel optimization methods for finding the highest or lowest point on a rug ... Full text Cite
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Recent Grants


Models for Learning, Memory and Interference

ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 1990 - 2002

Models for Learning, Memory and Inference

ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 1990 - 1995

Models for Learning, Memory, & Inference

ResearchCo-Principal Investigator · Awarded by National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) · 1990 - 1995

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Education, Training & Certifications


University of Cambridge (United Kingdom) · 1973 Ph.D.