Computational Physics: A Woman's Contribution to Molecular Dynamics

This lecture explores the significant role of Mary Ann Mansigh Karlsen, a pioneering female computer programmer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, in the development of computational physics. Through her work with Berni Alder, she contributed to turning molecular dynamics into computer code, paving the way for simulations on supercomputers. Despite the gender norms of the 1950s, Karlsen's programming skills were crucial in producing groundbreaking research, as evidenced by her inclusion as a coauthor in scientific publications. Her early work in creating computer simulations and producing educational materials showcases her lasting impact on the field of computational physics.