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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260416T170000
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SUMMARY:Swampland and our Universe
DESCRIPTION:Swampland and our Universe \nDates: April 15–16\, 2026 \nLocation: Harvard CMSA\, Room G10\, 20 Garden Street\, Cambridge MA \nThe swampland program has inspired a range of new ideas in both cosmology and neutrino physics. This workshop brings together experts in neutrino physics\, dark energy\, dark matter\, early-universe cosmology\, and string theory to share insights on these developments and to discuss current and future experimental tests. \nSpeakers \n\nIgnatios Antoniadis\, IAS\, Princeton\nAlek Bedroya\, Princeton\nMike Boylan-Kolchin\, UT Austin\nM.C. Gonzalez-Garcia\, YITP Stony Brook & ICREA U. Barcelona\nMustapha Ishak-Boushaki\, UT Dallas\nMarc Kamionkowski\, Johns Hopkins\nMiguel Montero\, Institute of Theoretical Physics\, Madrid\nGeorges Obied\, U Chicago\nMatt Reece\, Harvard\nTracy Slatyer\, MIT\n\nOrganizers: Luis Anchordoqui (CUNY Lehman College)\, Sonia Paban (Harvard Physics)\, and  Cumrun Vafa (Harvard Physics) \n  \n \n  \n  \nVideos are available on the CMSA Youtube Swampland Playlist \nSchedule\n(download pdf) \nWednesday\, Apr. 15\, 2026 \n8:00–9:00 am\nBreakfast \n9:00–10:00 am\nMarc Kamionkowski\, Johns Hopkins: Dark-matter dynamics and new physics \nAbstract: Galactic halos that are spherical\, stationary\, and composed of collisionless dark matter are easy to describe mathematically. If dark matter decays or interacts or there is some departure from equilibrium or time evolution of the system\, all bets are off. In this case costly N-body simulations are required. If\, however\, one retains the assumption of spherical symmetry\, these systems can be evolved numerically with a far simpler algorithm that is easily coded run in a matter of minutes on a laptop\, rather than a day on a supercomputer. I will describe this approach and illustrate with simulations of self-interacting dark matter\, decaying dark matter (with and without anisotropic velocity distributions\, supermassive-black-hole growth\, tidal stripping\, mixed SIDM/CDM models. Come prepared with your own non-standard dark-matter model; we’ll see if we can simulate it during the talk! \n10:00–10:30 am\nCoffee Break \n10:30–11:30 am\nTracy Slatyer\, MIT: What (more) the CMB can teach us about dark matter \nAbstract: Observations of the cosmic microwave background have already provided critical evidence for dark matter\, but can also stringently constrain a range of dark matter properties. I will outline CMB constraints on dark matter properties based on purely gravitational effects\, and then discuss in more detail how both CMB anisotropies and the blackbody spectrum can be used to test dark matter interactions with the Standard Model. \n11:30 am–1:00 pm\nLunch Break (catered) \n1:00–2:00 pm\nAlek Bedroya\, Princeton: How Quantum Gravity Constrains Physics on the Largest Length Scales \nAbstract: I will review the hierarchy of energy scales in quantum gravity\, from the Hubble scale in the IR to the quantum-gravity cutoff and the Planck scale in the UV\, and emphasize the nontrivial UV/IR relations that connect them. I will discuss conjectures constraining scalar potentials and explain how they are related to the behavior of the other energy scales\, together with bottom-up arguments based on general principles of quantum gravity such as holography. In particular\, I will explain how well-motivated holographic assumptions lead to strong restrictions on scalar potentials\, ruling out parametrically prolonged accelerated expansion for positive potentials and obstructing parametric scale separation for negative potentials associated with AdS vacua. Title:
How Quantum Gravity Constrains Physics on the Largest Length Scales\nAbstract:
I will review the hierarchy of energy scales in quantum gravity\, from the Hubble scale in the IR to the quantum-gravity cutoff and the Planck scale in the UV\, and emphasize the nontrivial UV/IR relations that connect them. I will discuss conjectures constraining scalar potentials and explain how they are related to the behavior of the other energy scales\, together with bottom-up arguments based on general principles of quantum gravity such as holography. In particular\, I will explain how well-motivated holographic assumptions lead to strong restrictions on scalar potentials\, ruling out parametrically prolonged accelerated expansion for positive potentials and obstructing parametric scale separation for negative potentials associated with AdS vacua. \n2:00–2:30 pm\nCoffee Break \n2:30–3:30 pm\nMustapha Ishak-Boushaki\, UT Dallas: Persistent and serious challenge to the ΛCDM throne: Evidence for dynamical dark energy rising from combinations of different types of datasets \nAbstract: We derive multiple constraints on dark energy and compare dynamical dark energy models with a time-varying equation of state (w0waCDM) versus a cosmological constant model (LCDM). We use Baryon Acoustic Oscillation (BAO) from DESI and DES\, Cosmic Microwave Background from Planck with and without lensing from Planck and ACT (noted CMBL and CMB\, respectively)\, supernovae(SN)\, and cross-correlations between galaxy positions and galaxy lensing from DES. We use pairs or triplets of datasets where we exclude one type of dataset each time and categorize them as “NO SN”\, “NO CMB” and “NO BAO” combinations. In all cases\, we find that the combinations favor the w0waCDM model over LCDM\, with significance ranging from 2.0 to 3.0-sigma. The persistence of this pattern across various dataset combinations even when any of the datasets is excluded supports an overall validation of this trending result regardless of any specific dataset. Next\, we use larger combinations of these datasets after verifying their mutual consistency within the w0waCDM model. We find combinations that give robust significance levels\, with DESI+DESY6BAO+CMBL+SN giving 3.4-sigma. In sum\, while we need to remain cautious\, the trend and pattern of these results beyond any single type of dataset and their associated systematics presents a compelling overall portrait not in favor of the LCDM and constitutes a serious challenge to the model’s reign. A few other cosmological results will be provided. \n3:30–4:00 pm\nCoffee Break \n4:00–5:00 pm\nGeorges Obied\, U Chicago: The Dark Dimension and its interplay with DESI data \nAbstract: In this talk\, I will discuss the motivation for considering an extra mesoscopic Dark Dimension of length l ~ 1 – 10 microns\, taking into account theoretical and observational arguments. I will then talk about cosmological aspects of the Dark Dimension. In particular this scenario leads\, by the universal coupling of the Standard Model sector to bulk gravitons\, to massive spin 2 KK excitations of the graviton in the Dark Dimension (the “dark gravitons”) as an unavoidable dark matter candidate. Observations allow such an extra dimension of size in the micron range. Finally\, I will discuss how this scenario can naturally accommodate features recently observed by the DESI survey such as an effective dark energy equation of state that is smaller than -1. \n   \nThursday\, Apr. 16\, 2026 \n8:00–8:30 am\nBreakfast \n8:30–9:30 am\nMC Gonzalez-Garcia\, YITP Stony Brook & ICREA U. Barcelona: Massive Neutrinos in 2026: What we know\, what we do not know (yet?)\, and what we do not understand \nAbstract: In this talk I will present an update of the current understanding (and some not understanding) of the neutrino masses and the lepton mixing and some other minimal SM extensions as derived from direct scrutiny of the results of neutrino flavour oscillation experiments\, some other laboratory probes\, and the cosmos. \n9:30–10:00 am\nCoffee Break \n10:00–11:00 am\nMiguel Montero\, IFT\, Madrid: Neutrinos and B-L symmetry in the Dark Dimension scenario \nAbstract: The Dark Dimension proposes the existe of a micrometer-sized large extra dimension\, whose size is tied to the observed small vacuum energy. I will review the scenario\, and then discuss how to embed the B-L global symmetry of the SM\, focusing on one possibility which leads to an explanation of the observed coincidence between neutrino mass scale and the  vacuum energy scale\, while leading to 3 light species of right-handed neutrinos. I will also briefly discuss potential opportunities for detection of the resulting neutrino oscillations. \n11:00–11:30 am\nCoffee Break \n11:30 am–12:30 pm\nIgnatios Antoniadis\, IAS\, Princeton: Searching for the dark dimension in neutrino experiments \nAbstract: Micron size extra dimensions offer a possibility to explain the smallness of neutrino masses if the right-handed neutrino propagates in the higher dimensional bulk. I will discuss the theoretical framework and the experimental signatures of this proposal in present and future experiments of KATRIN prototype\, aiming to measure the magnitude of neutrino masses and to search for extra sterile-type species. \n12:30–1:30 pm\nLunch Break (catered) \n1:30–2:30 pm\nMike Boylan-Kolchin\, UT Austin: Galaxies as Tracers of the Matter Density Field \nAbstract: Galaxy formation is often (rightly) thought of as involving a complex interplay of messy astrophysical processes\, but it also traces the nonlinear evolution of the matter density in the Universe. Remarkably\, it appears that properties of this nonlinear field are intimately connected to properties of the initial linear fluctuations and some basic physics of dark matter interactions. I will explore some of these connections\, with applications that include the surprisingly fast evolution of early galaxy formation as revealed by JWST and properties of the lowest-mass dark matter clumps capable of hosting galaxies in the local Universe.\n2:30–3:00 pm\nCoffee Break \n3:00–4:00 pm\nMatt Reece\, Harvard: Axions from String Theory\, and String Theory from Axions \nAbstract: String theory compactifications contain the right ingredients to produce axion fields that might solve the Strong CP problem or contribute to dark matter or dynamical dark energy in our universe. After briefly reviewing some of these ingredients\, I will frame the inverse question: suppose that an axion is discovered\, and its decay constant is measured in an experiment. Could this help us to locate ourselves in the string landscape? In particular\, I will discuss how an axion could give us clues about the fundamental string scale and the scale of supersymmetry breaking. \n  \n  \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/event/swampland2026/
LOCATION:CMSA 20 Garden Street Cambridge\, Massachusetts 02138 United States
CATEGORIES:Workshop
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260415T180000
DTSTAMP:20260516T033625
CREATED:20250409T160808Z
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SUMMARY:Millennium Prize Problems Lecture - Peter Sarnak: Riemann Hypothesis
DESCRIPTION:  \n \nDate: April 15\, 2026 \nTime: 5:00–6:00 pm \nLocation: Harvard Science Center Hall C\, 1 Oxford St.\, Cambridge MA \nSpeaker: Peter Sarnak\, Institute for Advanced Study \nTitle: The Riemann Hypothesis \nAbstract: After reviewing the hypothesis as put forth by Riemann we discuss its generalizations and analogues. We highlight a few of their implications and workarounds\, and probing their truths. \nRead more about the Riemann Hypothesis at the Clay Math website. \nOrganizers: Martin Bridson\, Clay Mathematics Institute | Dan Freed\, Harvard University and CMSA | Mike Hopkins\, Harvard University \n  \n\n                   \n\nMillennium Prize Problems Lecture Series
URL:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/event/clay_41526/
LOCATION:Harvard Science Center\, 1 Oxford Street\, Cambridge\, MA\, 02138
CATEGORIES:Millennium Prize Problems Lecture,Special Lectures
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/media/Sarnak_web-ad.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260422T103000
DTSTAMP:20260516T033625
CREATED:20260130T191058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260430T205709Z
UID:10003887-1776848400-1776853800@cmsa.fas.harvard.edu
SUMMARY:CMSA/Tsinghua Math-Science Literature Lecture: Nicolai Reshetikhin (Tsinghua): Asymptotic representation theory
DESCRIPTION:CMSA/Tsinghua Math-Science Literature Lecture \nDate: April 22\, 2026 \nTime: 9:00 – 10:30 am ET \nLocation: via Zoom Webinar \nSpeaker: Nicolai Reshetikhin\, Yau Mathematical Sciences Center\, Tsinghua University \nTitle: Asymptotic representation theory \nAbstract: Loosely speaking asymptotic representation theory studies representations of “large” groups or algebras. One of the first results in this direction is the study of Plancherel measures on the symmetric group $S_N$ in the limit $N\to \infty$ by Vershik and Kerov and Logan and Shepp. The first part of the talk will be an overview of results on statistics of irreducible representations in large tensor products. Then we focus on more modern results on statistics of tilting and projective modules in large tensor products and on how some problems in asymptotic representation theory are related to dimer models in statistical mechanics. \n\nBeginning in Spring 2020\, the CMSA began hosting a lecture series on literature in the mathematical sciences\, with a focus on significant developments in mathematics that have influenced the discipline\, and the lifetime accomplishments of significant scholars. \n  \n 
URL:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/event/mathscilit2026_nr/
LOCATION:CMSA Room G10\, CMSA\, 20 Garden Street\, Cambridge\, MA\, 02138\, United States
CATEGORIES:Math Science Literature Lecture Series,Public Lecture,Special Lectures
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/media/Mathlit_Reshetikhin.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260423T170000
DTSTAMP:20260516T033625
CREATED:20251006T173927Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260423T155101Z
UID:10003806-1776960000-1776963600@cmsa.fas.harvard.edu
SUMMARY:Sixth Annual Yip Lecture | Regina Barzilay\, MIT: Can machine learning methods design drugs?
DESCRIPTION:Sixth Annual Yip Lecture \nDate: April 23\, 2026 \nTime: 4:00–5:00 pm ET \nLocation: Harvard Science Center Hall A & via Zoom Webinar \nSpeaker: Regina Barzilay\, MIT \nTitle: Can ML methods design drugs? \nAbstract: Today\, life sciences are driven by prohibitively expensive wet lab experimentations\, which limit the pace and scope of discovery. This talk focuses on AI algorithms that enable in-silico modeling of biological processes. Specifically\, I will focus on algorithms for molecular and cellular modeling. I will highlight several successful examples where these algorithms have already transformed drug discovery. In the second part of the talk\, I want to focus on problems where current methods fail to deliver as expected\, motivating the need for algorithmic innovations. \nIn-person registration \nWebinar registration \n  \nRegina Barzilay is a School of Engineering Distinguished Professor for AI and Health in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS) at MIT. Since 2018\, she has been the AI faculty lead for the MIT Jameel Clinic and a member of MIT CSAIL. \nShe is a member of three national academies\, including the National Academy of Engineering\, the National Academy of Medicine\, and the American Academy of Arts & Sciences. \nShe is also a recipient of various awards\, including a 2017 MacArthur fellowship “Genius Grant.” In 2020\, she was awarded the Squirrel AI Award for Artificial Intelligence for the Benefit of Humanity. More recently\, she has been recognized in the 2025 TIME100 AI List and awarded with the IEEE Frances E. Allen Medal for her development of innovative machine learning algorithms that have significantly advanced human language technology and transformed medical diagnostics and drug discovery. \nShe completed her PhD in Computer Science from Columbia University\, and spent a year as a postdoc at Cornell University. Barzilay received her undergraduate degree from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev\, Israel. \nThe Yip Lecture takes place thanks to the support of Dr. Shing-Yiu Yip. \n  \n 
URL:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/event/yip-2026/
LOCATION:MA
CATEGORIES:Public Lecture,Special Lectures,Yip Lecture Series
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/media/yip_2026_final.2.jpg
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