Mathematical Physics and String Theory
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(07.05.) From topological field theories to "higher categories"

Claudia Scheimbauer (TUM)

07.05.2020 at 16:15

In this talk, I will give an overview of an approach to topological field theories from a mathematicians point of view. After introducing the axiomatic approach we will consider following Atiyah and Segal, and inspired by Witten’s work, we will see some first simple consequences. I will explain some mathematical structures that appear naturally and a beautiful deep theorem classifying these types of topological field theories, which allows to construct examples. Examples fitting into this framework or variations thereof include AKSZ type topological (classical) field theories and Turaev-Viro/Witten-Reshetikin-Turaev theory (generalizing Chern-Simons theory). Recently, connections have appeared between specific ''invertible’’ such topological field theories and topological phases of matter. I will not assume any familiarity with the mathematical structures involved, rather giving a panoramic overview and glimpses into my own work in the area.

via ZOOM

Arnold Sommerfeld Center
Theresienstrasse 37
Room 348