“A Physicist's Guide to Simulating the Universe”

"A Physicist's Guide to Simulating the Universe"
With Dr Jordan Barber

Details:

You can't put a galaxy in a laboratory. You can't rerun the Big Bang. So how do physicists test their ideas about the Universe? By building a virtual one.From predicting the motion of a few planets to recreating the evolution of millions of stars, computer simulations have become one of the most powerful tools physicists use to test their theories. But how do we teach a computer the laws of physics? And what happens when even our best equations can no longer be solved exactly?In this talk, we'll step into the mind of an astrophysicist to discover how we combine the laws of physics with computational algorithms to build virtual universes inside our computers, allowing us to explore the cosmos from right here on Earth, one time step at a time.

Jordan completed his undergraduate integrated Master’s (MPhys) degree at Cardiff University, where his dissertations focused on the computational analysis of gravitational-wave bursts from pulsar glitches and gamma-ray bursts. He then completed his PhD at Cardiff University in 2025, working with Dr Fabio Antonini. His thesis specialised in understanding the formation and evolution of compact binaries in dense stellar clusters, and how these environments shape the gravitational waves they produce.

Venue:
Swingers,
15 John Prince's St,
London,
W1G 0AB

Event Running Time:
(We recommend arriving at 6:30pm if you're eating, and 7pm if drinks only)
Doors from 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:10pm
Finish: 8:30pm

FAQs:

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (approx. 40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by an audience Q&A (approx. 20 minutes). The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable.

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket. There is occasionally the option to purchase a ticket on the door for our sold-out events, but we cannot guarantee this.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is usually the option to purchase food at our events - please see each venue's menu on their website. If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts. In the unlikely event the kitchen isn't open, there will typically be an option to order in food from elsewhere or bring your own food.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Can I get my ticket exchanged?

We issue full ticket exchanges if you have requested 48 hours before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.

Is the event pet/baby friendly?

Yes, we allow pets and babies to attend but reserve the right to request their removal if they are disruptive.

Is the venue accessible?

All of our venues are accessible, besides the following: The Old Queen's Head, The Landor, The Alma, and The Morpeth Arms.