Abstract

One of the main applications of groups is in mathematical physics: in gauge theory, groups are used to describe parallel translation around paths. Paths are one-dimensional. In this talk, the speaker will describe some aspects of the theory of n-groups, which play a similar role for parallel translation across n-dimensional membranes. For example, 2-groups are used in the description of parallel translation across surfaces.

About the speaker

Prof Ezra Getzler received his PhD in Mathematics from Harvard University in 1986. After being a junior fellow in Harvard Society of Fellows, he joined Massachusetts Institute of Technology and became assistant professor in 1989 and associate professor in 1993. He joined Northwestern University in 1997 and is currently professor of Mathematics.

Prof Getzler is a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society and a member of the Scientific Advisory Committee of the Australian Mathematical Sciences Institute.

The lecture is free and open to all. Seating is on a first come, first served basis.

HKUST Jockey Club Institute for Advanced Study
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