This course will explore a number of important topics in quantum mechanics such as perturbation theory and the semiclassical interaction of atoms and radiation. Research or review articles from the physics literature will be assigned to supplement standard texts and to help motivate discussion. Applications and examples will be taken mostly from atomic physics with some discussion of precision measurements and fundamental symmetries. The class as a whole will meet once a week for 50 minutes to discuss questions on the reading. Each student will also be assigned to a tutorial meeting with the instructor and one or two other students, at which the students will take turns presenting solutions to assigned problems. Written solutions to selected problems will be due a few days later. Evaluation will be based on tutorial participation, written problem set solutions and a final exam. Prerequisite: Physics 301.