Current trimester: TQFT and Knot Theory
The kickoff event took place at IHP on 22.04.2026 (https://indico.math.cnrs.fr/event/16226/)
TQFTs for physics
byGiovanni Rizi
Abstract:In this talk I will discuss some instances of how Topological Quantum Field Theories (TQFTs) appear and are used in high-energy physics contexts. TQFTs describe gapped phases of Quantum Field Theories (QFTs) and their relation with generalized symmetries makes them a useful classification tool for such phases. I will also highlight instances in which TQFT tools are useful beyond classification purposes and allow to describe more dynamical phenomena, such as modified crossing in 1+1 dimensional scattering processes. Beyond describing gapped phases, TQFTs are a useful method to describe the symmetry structure of general QFTs via the Symmetry Topological Field Theory (SymTFT) construction. Time permitting I will also discuss some connections between TQFTs with gravity and holographic dualities.