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The notion of global symmetry in quantum field theory (QFT) has witnessed dramatic generalizations in the past few years. One of the most exciting developments has been the identification of 4d QFTs possessing non-invertible symmetries, i.e. global symmetries whose generators exhibit fusion rules that are not group-like. In this talk, I will discuss realizations of non-invertible symmetries in string theory and holography. As a concrete case study, I will consider the Klebanov-Strassler setup for holographic confinement in Type IIB string theory. The global symmetries of the holographic 4d QFT (both invertible and non-invertible) can be accessed by studying the topological couplings of the low-energy effective action of the dual 5d supergravity theory. Moreover, non-invertible symmetry defects can be realized in terms of D-branes. The D-brane picture captures non-trivial aspects of the fusion of non-invertible symmetry defects, and of their action on extended operators of the 4d QFT.

For more information on how to join, please see: https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/event_category/quantum-matter-seminar/

The intersection theory of the moduli space of K3 surfaces polarized by a lattice is a subject of recent interest because of its deep connections with a wide variety of mathematics, including the intersection theory of moduli spaces of curves and the study of modular forms. Oprea and Pandharipande conjectured that the tautological rings of these moduli spaces of K3 surfaces are highly structured in a way that mirrors the picture for the moduli space of curves. I will discuss the proof of this conjecture in the case of K3 surfaces polarized by a degree 2 line bundle. This is joint work with Dragos Oprea and Rahul Pandharipande.

This seminar will be held on Monday, December 12th*