• Quantum cohomology as a deformation of symplectic cohomology

    Abstract: Let X be a compact symplectic manifold, and D a normal crossings symplectic divisor in X. We give a criterion under which the quantum cohomology of X is the cohomology of a natural deformation of the symplectic cochain complex of X \ D. The criterion can be thought of in terms of the Kodaira dimension of X […]

  • Scale separated AdS vacua?

    Abstract: In this talk I will review massive type IIA flux compactifications that seem to give rise to infinite families of supersymmetric 4d AdS vacua. These vacua provide an interesting testing ground for the swampland program. After reviewing potential shortcomings of this setup, I will discuss recent progress on overcoming them and getting a better understanding of these […]

  • Resistance curvature – a new discrete curvature on graphs

    Abstract: The last few decades have seen a surge of interest in building towards a theory of discrete curvature that attempts to translate the key properties of curvature in differential geometry to the setting of discrete objects and spaces. In the case of graphs there have been several successful proposals, for instance by Lin-Lu-Yau, Forman […]

  • The Hitchin connection for parabolic G-bundles

    Speaker: Richard Wentworth, University of Maryland Title: The Hitchin connection for parabolic G-bundles Abstract: For a simple and simply connected complex group G, I will discuss some elements of the proof of the existence of a flat projective connection on the bundle of nonabelian theta functions on the moduli space of semistable parabolic G-bundles over families of […]

  • The Principles of Deep Learning Theory

    Virtual

    https://youtu.be/wXZKoHEzASg Speaker: Dan Roberts, MIT & Salesforce Title: The Principles of Deep Learning Theory Abstract: Deep learning is an exciting approach to modern artificial intelligence based on artificial neural networks. The goal of this talk is to provide a blueprint — using tools from physics — for theoretically analyzing deep neural networks of practical relevance. This […]

  • Lagrangians and mirror symmetry in the Higgs bundle moduli space

    Abstract: The talk concerns recent work with Tamas Hausel in asking how SYZ mirror symmetry works for the moduli space of Higgs bundles. Focusing on C^*-invariant Lagrangian submanifolds, we use the notion of virtual multiplicity as a tool firstly to examine if the Lagrangian is closed, but  also to open up new features involving finite-dimensional algebras […]

  • Symmetry in quantum field theory and quantum gravity 2

    Speaker: Daniel Harlow (MIT) Title: Symmetry in quantum field theory and quantum gravity 2 Abstract: In this talk I will give an overview of semi-recent work with Hirosi Ooguri arguing that three old conjectures about symmetry in quantum gravity are true in the AdS/CFT correspondence.  These conjectures are 1) that there are no global symmetries […]

  • Kerr Geodesics and Self-consistent match between Inspiral and Transition-to-merger

    Abstract: The two-body motion in General Relativity can be solved perturbatively in the small mass ratio expansion. Kerr geodesics describe the leading order motion. After a short summary of the classification of polar and radial Kerr geodesic motion, I will consider the inspiral motion of a point particle around the Kerr black hole subjected to the […]

  • Hydrodynamics and multi-scale order in confluent epithelia

    Abstract: In this talk I will review our ongoing theoretical and experimental efforts toward deciphering the hydrodynamic behavior of confluent epithelia. The ability of epithelial cells to collectively flow lies at the heart of a myriad of processes that are instrumental for life, such as embryonic morphogenesis and wound healing, but also of life-threatening conditions, such […]