Skip to main content

Learning Memory Kernels in Generalized Langevin Equations

Publication ,  Journal Article
Lang, Q; Lu, J
Published in: SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science
January 1, 2026

We introduce a novel approach for learning memory kernels in generalized Langevin equations. This approach initially utilizes a regularized Prony method to estimate correlation functions from trajectory data, followed by regression over a Sobolev norm-based loss function with reproducing kernel Hilbert space regularization. Our method guarantees improved performance within an exponentially weighted L2 space, with the kernel estimation error controlled by the error in estimated correlation functions. We demonstrate the superiority of our estimator compared to other regression estimators that rely on L2 loss functions and also an estimator derived from the inverse Laplace transform, using numerical examples that highlight its consistent advantage across various weight parameter selections. Additionally, we provide examples that include the application of force and drift terms in the equation.

Duke Scholars

Published In

SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science

DOI

ISSN

2577-0187

Publication Date

January 1, 2026

Volume

8

Issue

1

Start / End Page

141 / 166

Related Subject Headings

  • 49 Mathematical sciences
  • 46 Information and computing sciences
 

Citation

APA
Chicago
ICMJE
MLA
NLM
Lang, Q., & Lu, J. (2026). Learning Memory Kernels in Generalized Langevin Equations. SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science, 8(1), 141–166. https://doi.org/10.1137/24M1651101
Lang, Q., and J. Lu. “Learning Memory Kernels in Generalized Langevin Equations.” SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science 8, no. 1 (January 1, 2026): 141–66. https://doi.org/10.1137/24M1651101.
Lang Q, Lu J. Learning Memory Kernels in Generalized Langevin Equations. SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science. 2026 Jan 1;8(1):141–66.
Lang, Q., and J. Lu. “Learning Memory Kernels in Generalized Langevin Equations.” SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science, vol. 8, no. 1, Jan. 2026, pp. 141–66. Scopus, doi:10.1137/24M1651101.
Lang Q, Lu J. Learning Memory Kernels in Generalized Langevin Equations. SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science. 2026 Jan 1;8(1):141–166.

Published In

SIAM Journal on Mathematics of Data Science

DOI

ISSN

2577-0187

Publication Date

January 1, 2026

Volume

8

Issue

1

Start / End Page

141 / 166

Related Subject Headings

  • 49 Mathematical sciences
  • 46 Information and computing sciences