Calendar

< 2022 >
May 01 - May 07
  • 01
    May 1, 2022
    No events
  • 02
    May 2, 2022

    CMSA General Relativity Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

    All day
    May 2, 2022-May 5, 2022
    20 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

    General Relativity Workshop

    May 2–5, 2022
    Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

     

    Location: Room G10, CMSA, 20 Garden Street, Cambridge MA 02138
    Advanced registration for in-person components is required.
    In-Person Registration is required. Register online.

    Zoom webinar: Registration is required.  Webinar Registration 

    Organizers: Dan Lee (CMSA/CUNY), Martin Lesourd (CMSA/BHI), and Lan-Hsuan Huang (University of Connecticut).

     

    Speakers:

    • Zhongshan An, University of Connecticut
    • Paula Burkhardt-Guim, NYU
    • Hyun Chul Jang, University of Miami
    • Chao Li, NYU
    • Christos Mantoulidis, Rice University
    • Robin Neumayer, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Andre Neves, University of Chicago
    • Tristan Ozuch, MIT
    • Annachiara Piubello, University of Miami
    • Antoine Song, UC Berkeley
    • Tin-Yau Tsang, UC Irvine
    • Ryan Unger, Princeton
    • Zhizhang Xie, Texas A & M
    • Xin Zhou, Cornell University
    • Jonathan Zhu, Princeton University

    Schedule

    Download PDF

    Monday, May 2, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amHyun Chul JangTitle: Mass rigidity for asymptotically locally hyperbolic manifolds with boundary

    Abstract: Asymptotically locally hyperbolic (ALH) manifolds are a class of manifolds whose sectional curvature converges to −1 at infinity. If a given ALH manifold is asymptotic to a static reference manifold, the Wang-Chruściel-Herzlich mass integrals are well-defined, which is a geometric invariant that essentially measure the difference from the reference manifold. In this talk, I will present the result that an ALH manifold which minimize the mass integrals admits a static potential. To show this, we proved the scalar curvature map is locally surjective when it is defined on (1) the space of ALH metrics that coincide exponentially toward the boundary or (2) the space of ALH metrics with arbitrarily prescribed nearby Bartnik boundary data. And then, we establish the rigidity of the known positive mass theorems by studying the static uniqueness. This talk is based on joint work with L.-H. Huang.

    10:40–11:40 amAnnachiara PiubelloTitle: Estimates on the Bartnik mass and their geometric implications.

    Abstract: In this talk, we will discuss some recent estimates on the Bartnik mass for data with non-negative Gauss curvature and positive mean curvature. In particular, if the metric is round the estimate reduces to an estimate found by Miao and if the total mean curvature approaches 0, the estimate tends to 1/2 the area radius, which is the bound found by Mantoulidis and Schoen in the blackhole horizon case. We will then discuss some geometric implications. This is joint work with Pengzi Miao.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmRyan UngerTitle: Density and positive mass theorems for black holes and incomplete manifolds

    Abstract: We generalize the density theorems for the Einstein constraint equations of Corvino-Schoen and Eichmair-Huang-Lee-Schoen to allow for marginally outer trapped boundaries (which correspond physically to apparent horizons). As an application, we resolve the spacetime positive mass theorem in the presence of MOTS boundary in the non-spin case. This also has a surprising application to the Riemannian setting, including a non-filling result for manifolds with negative mass. This is joint work with Martin Lesourd and Dan Lee.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications I

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmAntoine SongTitle: The spherical Plateau problem

    Abstract: For any closed oriented manifold with fundamental group G, or more generally any group homology class for a group G, I will discuss an infinite codimension Plateau problem in a Hilbert classifying space for G. For instance, for a closed oriented 3-manifold M, the intrinsic geometry of any Plateau solution is given by the hyperbolic part of M.

    Tuesday, May 3, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amChao LiTitle: Stable minimal hypersurfaces in 4-manifolds

    Abstract: There have been a classical theory for complete minimal surfaces in 3-manifolds, including the stable Bernstein conjecture in R^3 and rigidity results in 3-manifolds with positive Ricci curvature. In this talk, I will discuss how one may extend these results in four dimensions. This leads to new comparison theorems for positively curved 4-manifolds.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds I

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmZhongshan AnTitle: Local existence and uniqueness of static vacuum extensions of Bartnik boundary data

    Abstract: The study of static vacuum Riemannian metrics arises naturally in differential geometry and general relativity. It plays an important role in scalar curvature deformation, as well as in constructing Einstein spacetimes. Existence of static vacuum Riemannian metrics with prescribed Bartnik data — the induced metric and mean curvature of the boundary — is one of the most fundamental problems in Riemannian geometry related to general relativity. It is also a very interesting problem on the global solvability of a natural geometric boundary value problem. In this talk I will first discuss some basic properties of the nonlinear and linearized static vacuum equations and the geometric boundary conditions. Then I will present some recent progress towards the existence problem of static vacuum metrics based on joint works with Lan-Hsuan Huang.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications II

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmTin-Yau TsangTitle: Dihedral rigidity, fill-in and spacetime positive mass theorem

    Abstract: For compact manifolds with boundary, to characterise the relation between scalar curvature and boundary geometry, Gromov proposed dihedral rigidity conjecture and fill-in conjecture. In this talk, we will see the role of spacetime positive mass theorem in answering the corresponding questions for initial data sets.

    Speakers Banquet

    Wednesday, May 4, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amTristan OzuchTitle: Weighted versions of scalar curvature, mass and spin geometry for Ricci flows

    Abstract: With A. Deruelle, we define a Perelman-like functional for ALE metrics which lets us study the (in)stability of Ricci-flat ALE metrics. With J. Baldauf, we extend some classical objects and formulas from the study of scalar curvature, spin geometry and general relativity to manifolds with densities. We surprisingly find that the extension of ADM mass is the opposite of the above functional introduced with A. Deruelle. Through a weighted Witten’s formula, this functional also equals a weighted spinorial Dirichlet energy on spin manifolds. Ricci flow is the gradient flow of all of these quantities.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds II

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmChristos MantoulidisTitle: Metrics with lambda_1(-Delta+kR) > 0 and applications to the Riemannian Penrose Inequality

    Abstract: On a closed n-dimensional manifold, consider the space of all Riemannian metrics for which -Delta+kR is positive (nonnegative) definite, where k > 0 and R is the scalar curvature. This spectral generalization of positive (nonnegative) scalar curvature arises naturally, for different values of k, in the study of scalar curvature in dimension n + 1 via minimal surfaces, the Yamabe problem in dimension n, and Perelman’s surgery for Ricci flow in dimension n = 3. We study these spaces in unison and generalize, as appropriate, scalar curvature results that we eventually apply to k = 1/2, where the space above models apparent horizons in time-symmetric initial data sets to the Einstein equations and whose flexibility properties are intimately tied with the instability of the Riemannian Penrose Inequality. This is joint work with Chao Li.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications III

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmXin ZhouTitle: Min-max minimal hypersurfaces with higher multiplicity

    Abstract: It is well known that minimal hypersurfaces produced by the Almgren-Pitts min-max theory are counted with integer multiplicities. For bumpy metrics (which form a generic set), the multiplicities are one thanks to the resolution of the Marques-Neves Multiplicity One Conjecture. In this talk, we will exhibit a set of non-bumpy metrics on the standard (n+1)-sphere, in which the min-max varifold associated with the second volume spectrum is a multiplicity two n-sphere. Such non-bumpy metrics form the first set of examples where the min-max theory must produce higher multiplicity minimal hypersurfaces. The talk is based on a joint work with Zhichao Wang (UBC).

    May 5, 2022

    9:00–10:00 amAndre NevesTitle: Metrics on spheres where all the equators are minimal

    Abstract: I will talk about joint work with Lucas Ambrozio and Fernando Marques where we study the space of metrics where all the equators are minimal.

    10:10–11:10 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds III

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    11:20–12:20 pmPaula Burkhardt-GuimTitle: Lower scalar curvature bounds for C^0 metrics: a Ricci flow approach

    Abstract: We describe some recent work that has been done to generalize the notion of lower scalar curvature bounds to C^0 metrics, including a localized Ricci flow approach. In particular, we show the following: that there is a Ricci flow definition which is stable under greater-than-second-order perturbation of the metric, that there exists a reasonable notion of a Ricci flow starting from C^0 initial data which is smooth for positive times, and that the weak lower scalar curvature bounds are preserved under evolution by the Ricci flow from C^0 initial data.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmJonathan ZhuTitle: Widths, minimal submanifolds and symplectic embeddings

    Abstract: Width or waist inequalities measure the size of a manifold with respect to measures of families of submanifolds. We’ll discuss related area estimates for minimal submanifolds, as well as applications to quantitative symplectic camels.


    Program Visitors

    • Dan Lee, CMSA/CUNY, 01/24/22 – 05/20/22
    • Stefan Czimek, Brown, 02/27/22 – 03/03/22
    • Lan-Hsuan Huang, University of Connecticut, 03/13 – 03/19, 03/21 – 03/25, 04/17 – 04/23
    • Mu-Tao Wang, Columbia, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Po-Ning Chen, University of California, Riverside, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Marnie Smith, Imperial College London, 03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Christopher Stith, University of Michigan, 03/27/22 – 04/23/22
    • Martin Taylor, Imperial College London,  03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Marcelo Disconzi, Vanderbilt, 05/02/22 – 05/27/22
    • Lydia Bieri, University of Michigan, 05/05/22 – 05/09/22

    For more information, please see https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/gr-program/

     

  • 03
    May 3, 2022

    CMSA General Relativity Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

    All day
    May 3, 2022-May 5, 2022
    20 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

    General Relativity Workshop

    May 2–5, 2022
    Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

     

    Location: Room G10, CMSA, 20 Garden Street, Cambridge MA 02138
    Advanced registration for in-person components is required.
    In-Person Registration is required. Register online.

    Zoom webinar: Registration is required.  Webinar Registration 

    Organizers: Dan Lee (CMSA/CUNY), Martin Lesourd (CMSA/BHI), and Lan-Hsuan Huang (University of Connecticut).

     

    Speakers:

    • Zhongshan An, University of Connecticut
    • Paula Burkhardt-Guim, NYU
    • Hyun Chul Jang, University of Miami
    • Chao Li, NYU
    • Christos Mantoulidis, Rice University
    • Robin Neumayer, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Andre Neves, University of Chicago
    • Tristan Ozuch, MIT
    • Annachiara Piubello, University of Miami
    • Antoine Song, UC Berkeley
    • Tin-Yau Tsang, UC Irvine
    • Ryan Unger, Princeton
    • Zhizhang Xie, Texas A & M
    • Xin Zhou, Cornell University
    • Jonathan Zhu, Princeton University

    Schedule

    Download PDF

    Monday, May 2, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amHyun Chul JangTitle: Mass rigidity for asymptotically locally hyperbolic manifolds with boundary

    Abstract: Asymptotically locally hyperbolic (ALH) manifolds are a class of manifolds whose sectional curvature converges to −1 at infinity. If a given ALH manifold is asymptotic to a static reference manifold, the Wang-Chruściel-Herzlich mass integrals are well-defined, which is a geometric invariant that essentially measure the difference from the reference manifold. In this talk, I will present the result that an ALH manifold which minimize the mass integrals admits a static potential. To show this, we proved the scalar curvature map is locally surjective when it is defined on (1) the space of ALH metrics that coincide exponentially toward the boundary or (2) the space of ALH metrics with arbitrarily prescribed nearby Bartnik boundary data. And then, we establish the rigidity of the known positive mass theorems by studying the static uniqueness. This talk is based on joint work with L.-H. Huang.

    10:40–11:40 amAnnachiara PiubelloTitle: Estimates on the Bartnik mass and their geometric implications.

    Abstract: In this talk, we will discuss some recent estimates on the Bartnik mass for data with non-negative Gauss curvature and positive mean curvature. In particular, if the metric is round the estimate reduces to an estimate found by Miao and if the total mean curvature approaches 0, the estimate tends to 1/2 the area radius, which is the bound found by Mantoulidis and Schoen in the blackhole horizon case. We will then discuss some geometric implications. This is joint work with Pengzi Miao.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmRyan UngerTitle: Density and positive mass theorems for black holes and incomplete manifolds

    Abstract: We generalize the density theorems for the Einstein constraint equations of Corvino-Schoen and Eichmair-Huang-Lee-Schoen to allow for marginally outer trapped boundaries (which correspond physically to apparent horizons). As an application, we resolve the spacetime positive mass theorem in the presence of MOTS boundary in the non-spin case. This also has a surprising application to the Riemannian setting, including a non-filling result for manifolds with negative mass. This is joint work with Martin Lesourd and Dan Lee.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications I

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmAntoine SongTitle: The spherical Plateau problem

    Abstract: For any closed oriented manifold with fundamental group G, or more generally any group homology class for a group G, I will discuss an infinite codimension Plateau problem in a Hilbert classifying space for G. For instance, for a closed oriented 3-manifold M, the intrinsic geometry of any Plateau solution is given by the hyperbolic part of M.

    Tuesday, May 3, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amChao LiTitle: Stable minimal hypersurfaces in 4-manifolds

    Abstract: There have been a classical theory for complete minimal surfaces in 3-manifolds, including the stable Bernstein conjecture in R^3 and rigidity results in 3-manifolds with positive Ricci curvature. In this talk, I will discuss how one may extend these results in four dimensions. This leads to new comparison theorems for positively curved 4-manifolds.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds I

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmZhongshan AnTitle: Local existence and uniqueness of static vacuum extensions of Bartnik boundary data

    Abstract: The study of static vacuum Riemannian metrics arises naturally in differential geometry and general relativity. It plays an important role in scalar curvature deformation, as well as in constructing Einstein spacetimes. Existence of static vacuum Riemannian metrics with prescribed Bartnik data — the induced metric and mean curvature of the boundary — is one of the most fundamental problems in Riemannian geometry related to general relativity. It is also a very interesting problem on the global solvability of a natural geometric boundary value problem. In this talk I will first discuss some basic properties of the nonlinear and linearized static vacuum equations and the geometric boundary conditions. Then I will present some recent progress towards the existence problem of static vacuum metrics based on joint works with Lan-Hsuan Huang.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications II

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmTin-Yau TsangTitle: Dihedral rigidity, fill-in and spacetime positive mass theorem

    Abstract: For compact manifolds with boundary, to characterise the relation between scalar curvature and boundary geometry, Gromov proposed dihedral rigidity conjecture and fill-in conjecture. In this talk, we will see the role of spacetime positive mass theorem in answering the corresponding questions for initial data sets.

    Speakers Banquet

    Wednesday, May 4, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amTristan OzuchTitle: Weighted versions of scalar curvature, mass and spin geometry for Ricci flows

    Abstract: With A. Deruelle, we define a Perelman-like functional for ALE metrics which lets us study the (in)stability of Ricci-flat ALE metrics. With J. Baldauf, we extend some classical objects and formulas from the study of scalar curvature, spin geometry and general relativity to manifolds with densities. We surprisingly find that the extension of ADM mass is the opposite of the above functional introduced with A. Deruelle. Through a weighted Witten’s formula, this functional also equals a weighted spinorial Dirichlet energy on spin manifolds. Ricci flow is the gradient flow of all of these quantities.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds II

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmChristos MantoulidisTitle: Metrics with lambda_1(-Delta+kR) > 0 and applications to the Riemannian Penrose Inequality

    Abstract: On a closed n-dimensional manifold, consider the space of all Riemannian metrics for which -Delta+kR is positive (nonnegative) definite, where k > 0 and R is the scalar curvature. This spectral generalization of positive (nonnegative) scalar curvature arises naturally, for different values of k, in the study of scalar curvature in dimension n + 1 via minimal surfaces, the Yamabe problem in dimension n, and Perelman’s surgery for Ricci flow in dimension n = 3. We study these spaces in unison and generalize, as appropriate, scalar curvature results that we eventually apply to k = 1/2, where the space above models apparent horizons in time-symmetric initial data sets to the Einstein equations and whose flexibility properties are intimately tied with the instability of the Riemannian Penrose Inequality. This is joint work with Chao Li.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications III

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmXin ZhouTitle: Min-max minimal hypersurfaces with higher multiplicity

    Abstract: It is well known that minimal hypersurfaces produced by the Almgren-Pitts min-max theory are counted with integer multiplicities. For bumpy metrics (which form a generic set), the multiplicities are one thanks to the resolution of the Marques-Neves Multiplicity One Conjecture. In this talk, we will exhibit a set of non-bumpy metrics on the standard (n+1)-sphere, in which the min-max varifold associated with the second volume spectrum is a multiplicity two n-sphere. Such non-bumpy metrics form the first set of examples where the min-max theory must produce higher multiplicity minimal hypersurfaces. The talk is based on a joint work with Zhichao Wang (UBC).

    May 5, 2022

    9:00–10:00 amAndre NevesTitle: Metrics on spheres where all the equators are minimal

    Abstract: I will talk about joint work with Lucas Ambrozio and Fernando Marques where we study the space of metrics where all the equators are minimal.

    10:10–11:10 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds III

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    11:20–12:20 pmPaula Burkhardt-GuimTitle: Lower scalar curvature bounds for C^0 metrics: a Ricci flow approach

    Abstract: We describe some recent work that has been done to generalize the notion of lower scalar curvature bounds to C^0 metrics, including a localized Ricci flow approach. In particular, we show the following: that there is a Ricci flow definition which is stable under greater-than-second-order perturbation of the metric, that there exists a reasonable notion of a Ricci flow starting from C^0 initial data which is smooth for positive times, and that the weak lower scalar curvature bounds are preserved under evolution by the Ricci flow from C^0 initial data.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmJonathan ZhuTitle: Widths, minimal submanifolds and symplectic embeddings

    Abstract: Width or waist inequalities measure the size of a manifold with respect to measures of families of submanifolds. We’ll discuss related area estimates for minimal submanifolds, as well as applications to quantitative symplectic camels.


    Program Visitors

    • Dan Lee, CMSA/CUNY, 01/24/22 – 05/20/22
    • Stefan Czimek, Brown, 02/27/22 – 03/03/22
    • Lan-Hsuan Huang, University of Connecticut, 03/13 – 03/19, 03/21 – 03/25, 04/17 – 04/23
    • Mu-Tao Wang, Columbia, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Po-Ning Chen, University of California, Riverside, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Marnie Smith, Imperial College London, 03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Christopher Stith, University of Michigan, 03/27/22 – 04/23/22
    • Martin Taylor, Imperial College London,  03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Marcelo Disconzi, Vanderbilt, 05/02/22 – 05/27/22
    • Lydia Bieri, University of Michigan, 05/05/22 – 05/09/22

    For more information, please see https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/gr-program/

     

    Math Picture Language Seminar: Nonasymptotic random matrix theory

    9:30 AM-10:30 AM
    May 3, 2022

    Suppose we are given a random matrix with an essentially arbitrary pattern of entry means and variances, dependencies, and distributions. What can we say about its spectrum? It may appear hopeless that anything useful can be  proved at this level of generality, which lies far outside the scope of classical random matrix theory. The aim of my talk is to describe the basic ingredients of a new theory that provides sharp nonasymptotic information on the spectrum in an extremely general setting. This is made possible by an unexpected phenomenon: under surprisingly minimal assumptions, the spectrum of an arbitrarily structured random matrix is accurately captured by that of an associated deterministic operator that arises from free probability theory.

    (Based on joint works with Afonso Bandeira, March Boedihardjo, and Tatiana Brailovskaya.)


    https://harvard.zoom.us/j/779283357?pwd=MitXVm1pYUlJVzZqT3lwV2pCT1ZUQT09

    CMSA Combinatorics, Physics, and Probability: The threshold for stacked triangulations

    9:30 AM-10:30 AM
    May 3, 2022

    Consider a bootstrap percolation process that starts with a set of `infected’ triangles $Y \subseteq \binom{[n]}3$, and a new triangle f gets infected if there is a copy of K_4^3 (= the boundary of a tetrahedron) in which f is the only not-yet infected triangle.
    Suppose that every triangle is initially infected independently with probability p=p(n), what is the threshold probability for percolation — the event that all triangles get infected? How many new triangles do get infected in the subcritical regime?

    This notion of percolation can be viewed as a simplification of simple-connectivity. Namely, a stacked triangulation of a triangle is obtained by repeatedly subdividing an inner face into three faces.
    We ask: for which $p$ does the random simplicial complex Y_2(n,p) contain, for every triple $xyz$, the faces of a stacked triangulation of $xyz$ whose internal vertices are arbitrarily labeled in [n].

    We consider this problem in every dimension d>=2, and our main result identifies a sharp probability threshold for percolation, showing it is asymptotically (c_d*n)^(-1/d), where c_d is the growth rate of the Fuss–Catalan numbers of order d.

    The proof hinges on a second moment argument in the supercritical regime, and on Kalai’s algebraic shifting in the subcritical regime.


    For more information, please see: https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/category/colloquia-seminars/seminars/

  • 04
    May 4, 2022

    CMSA General Relativity Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

    All day
    May 4, 2022-May 5, 2022
    20 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

    General Relativity Workshop

    May 2–5, 2022
    Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

     

    Location: Room G10, CMSA, 20 Garden Street, Cambridge MA 02138
    Advanced registration for in-person components is required.
    In-Person Registration is required. Register online.

    Zoom webinar: Registration is required.  Webinar Registration 

    Organizers: Dan Lee (CMSA/CUNY), Martin Lesourd (CMSA/BHI), and Lan-Hsuan Huang (University of Connecticut).

     

    Speakers:

    • Zhongshan An, University of Connecticut
    • Paula Burkhardt-Guim, NYU
    • Hyun Chul Jang, University of Miami
    • Chao Li, NYU
    • Christos Mantoulidis, Rice University
    • Robin Neumayer, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Andre Neves, University of Chicago
    • Tristan Ozuch, MIT
    • Annachiara Piubello, University of Miami
    • Antoine Song, UC Berkeley
    • Tin-Yau Tsang, UC Irvine
    • Ryan Unger, Princeton
    • Zhizhang Xie, Texas A & M
    • Xin Zhou, Cornell University
    • Jonathan Zhu, Princeton University

    Schedule

    Download PDF

    Monday, May 2, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amHyun Chul JangTitle: Mass rigidity for asymptotically locally hyperbolic manifolds with boundary

    Abstract: Asymptotically locally hyperbolic (ALH) manifolds are a class of manifolds whose sectional curvature converges to −1 at infinity. If a given ALH manifold is asymptotic to a static reference manifold, the Wang-Chruściel-Herzlich mass integrals are well-defined, which is a geometric invariant that essentially measure the difference from the reference manifold. In this talk, I will present the result that an ALH manifold which minimize the mass integrals admits a static potential. To show this, we proved the scalar curvature map is locally surjective when it is defined on (1) the space of ALH metrics that coincide exponentially toward the boundary or (2) the space of ALH metrics with arbitrarily prescribed nearby Bartnik boundary data. And then, we establish the rigidity of the known positive mass theorems by studying the static uniqueness. This talk is based on joint work with L.-H. Huang.

    10:40–11:40 amAnnachiara PiubelloTitle: Estimates on the Bartnik mass and their geometric implications.

    Abstract: In this talk, we will discuss some recent estimates on the Bartnik mass for data with non-negative Gauss curvature and positive mean curvature. In particular, if the metric is round the estimate reduces to an estimate found by Miao and if the total mean curvature approaches 0, the estimate tends to 1/2 the area radius, which is the bound found by Mantoulidis and Schoen in the blackhole horizon case. We will then discuss some geometric implications. This is joint work with Pengzi Miao.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmRyan UngerTitle: Density and positive mass theorems for black holes and incomplete manifolds

    Abstract: We generalize the density theorems for the Einstein constraint equations of Corvino-Schoen and Eichmair-Huang-Lee-Schoen to allow for marginally outer trapped boundaries (which correspond physically to apparent horizons). As an application, we resolve the spacetime positive mass theorem in the presence of MOTS boundary in the non-spin case. This also has a surprising application to the Riemannian setting, including a non-filling result for manifolds with negative mass. This is joint work with Martin Lesourd and Dan Lee.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications I

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmAntoine SongTitle: The spherical Plateau problem

    Abstract: For any closed oriented manifold with fundamental group G, or more generally any group homology class for a group G, I will discuss an infinite codimension Plateau problem in a Hilbert classifying space for G. For instance, for a closed oriented 3-manifold M, the intrinsic geometry of any Plateau solution is given by the hyperbolic part of M.

    Tuesday, May 3, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amChao LiTitle: Stable minimal hypersurfaces in 4-manifolds

    Abstract: There have been a classical theory for complete minimal surfaces in 3-manifolds, including the stable Bernstein conjecture in R^3 and rigidity results in 3-manifolds with positive Ricci curvature. In this talk, I will discuss how one may extend these results in four dimensions. This leads to new comparison theorems for positively curved 4-manifolds.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds I

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmZhongshan AnTitle: Local existence and uniqueness of static vacuum extensions of Bartnik boundary data

    Abstract: The study of static vacuum Riemannian metrics arises naturally in differential geometry and general relativity. It plays an important role in scalar curvature deformation, as well as in constructing Einstein spacetimes. Existence of static vacuum Riemannian metrics with prescribed Bartnik data — the induced metric and mean curvature of the boundary — is one of the most fundamental problems in Riemannian geometry related to general relativity. It is also a very interesting problem on the global solvability of a natural geometric boundary value problem. In this talk I will first discuss some basic properties of the nonlinear and linearized static vacuum equations and the geometric boundary conditions. Then I will present some recent progress towards the existence problem of static vacuum metrics based on joint works with Lan-Hsuan Huang.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications II

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmTin-Yau TsangTitle: Dihedral rigidity, fill-in and spacetime positive mass theorem

    Abstract: For compact manifolds with boundary, to characterise the relation between scalar curvature and boundary geometry, Gromov proposed dihedral rigidity conjecture and fill-in conjecture. In this talk, we will see the role of spacetime positive mass theorem in answering the corresponding questions for initial data sets.

    Speakers Banquet

    Wednesday, May 4, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amTristan OzuchTitle: Weighted versions of scalar curvature, mass and spin geometry for Ricci flows

    Abstract: With A. Deruelle, we define a Perelman-like functional for ALE metrics which lets us study the (in)stability of Ricci-flat ALE metrics. With J. Baldauf, we extend some classical objects and formulas from the study of scalar curvature, spin geometry and general relativity to manifolds with densities. We surprisingly find that the extension of ADM mass is the opposite of the above functional introduced with A. Deruelle. Through a weighted Witten’s formula, this functional also equals a weighted spinorial Dirichlet energy on spin manifolds. Ricci flow is the gradient flow of all of these quantities.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds II

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmChristos MantoulidisTitle: Metrics with lambda_1(-Delta+kR) > 0 and applications to the Riemannian Penrose Inequality

    Abstract: On a closed n-dimensional manifold, consider the space of all Riemannian metrics for which -Delta+kR is positive (nonnegative) definite, where k > 0 and R is the scalar curvature. This spectral generalization of positive (nonnegative) scalar curvature arises naturally, for different values of k, in the study of scalar curvature in dimension n + 1 via minimal surfaces, the Yamabe problem in dimension n, and Perelman’s surgery for Ricci flow in dimension n = 3. We study these spaces in unison and generalize, as appropriate, scalar curvature results that we eventually apply to k = 1/2, where the space above models apparent horizons in time-symmetric initial data sets to the Einstein equations and whose flexibility properties are intimately tied with the instability of the Riemannian Penrose Inequality. This is joint work with Chao Li.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications III

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmXin ZhouTitle: Min-max minimal hypersurfaces with higher multiplicity

    Abstract: It is well known that minimal hypersurfaces produced by the Almgren-Pitts min-max theory are counted with integer multiplicities. For bumpy metrics (which form a generic set), the multiplicities are one thanks to the resolution of the Marques-Neves Multiplicity One Conjecture. In this talk, we will exhibit a set of non-bumpy metrics on the standard (n+1)-sphere, in which the min-max varifold associated with the second volume spectrum is a multiplicity two n-sphere. Such non-bumpy metrics form the first set of examples where the min-max theory must produce higher multiplicity minimal hypersurfaces. The talk is based on a joint work with Zhichao Wang (UBC).

    May 5, 2022

    9:00–10:00 amAndre NevesTitle: Metrics on spheres where all the equators are minimal

    Abstract: I will talk about joint work with Lucas Ambrozio and Fernando Marques where we study the space of metrics where all the equators are minimal.

    10:10–11:10 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds III

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    11:20–12:20 pmPaula Burkhardt-GuimTitle: Lower scalar curvature bounds for C^0 metrics: a Ricci flow approach

    Abstract: We describe some recent work that has been done to generalize the notion of lower scalar curvature bounds to C^0 metrics, including a localized Ricci flow approach. In particular, we show the following: that there is a Ricci flow definition which is stable under greater-than-second-order perturbation of the metric, that there exists a reasonable notion of a Ricci flow starting from C^0 initial data which is smooth for positive times, and that the weak lower scalar curvature bounds are preserved under evolution by the Ricci flow from C^0 initial data.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmJonathan ZhuTitle: Widths, minimal submanifolds and symplectic embeddings

    Abstract: Width or waist inequalities measure the size of a manifold with respect to measures of families of submanifolds. We’ll discuss related area estimates for minimal submanifolds, as well as applications to quantitative symplectic camels.


    Program Visitors

    • Dan Lee, CMSA/CUNY, 01/24/22 – 05/20/22
    • Stefan Czimek, Brown, 02/27/22 – 03/03/22
    • Lan-Hsuan Huang, University of Connecticut, 03/13 – 03/19, 03/21 – 03/25, 04/17 – 04/23
    • Mu-Tao Wang, Columbia, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Po-Ning Chen, University of California, Riverside, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Marnie Smith, Imperial College London, 03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Christopher Stith, University of Michigan, 03/27/22 – 04/23/22
    • Martin Taylor, Imperial College London,  03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Marcelo Disconzi, Vanderbilt, 05/02/22 – 05/27/22
    • Lydia Bieri, University of Michigan, 05/05/22 – 05/09/22

    For more information, please see https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/gr-program/

     

    Number Theory Seminar: Non-archimedean and tropical geometry, algebraic groups, moduli spaces of matroids, and the field with one element

    3:00 PM-4:00 PM
    May 4, 2022
    1 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 USA

    I will give an introduction to Oliver Lorscheid’s theory of ordered blueprints – one of the more successful approaches to “the field of one element” – and sketch its relationship to Berkovich spaces, tropical geometry, Tits models for algebraic groups, and moduli spaces of matroids. The basic idea for the latter two applications is quite simple: given a scheme over Z defined by equations with coefficients in {0,1,-1}, there is a corresponding “blue model” whose K-points (where K is the Krasner hyperfield) sometimes correspond to interesting combinatorial structures. For example, taking K-points of a suitable blue model for a split reductive group scheme G over Z gives the Weyl group of G, and taking K-points of a suitable blue model for the Grassmannian G(r,n) gives the set of matroids of rank r on {1,…,n}. Similarly, the Berkovich analytification of a scheme X over a valued field K coincides, as a topological space, with the set of T-points of X, considered as an ordered blue scheme over K. Here T is the tropical hyperfield, and T-points are defined using the observation that a (height 1) valuation on K is nothing other than a homomorphism to T.


     

    MIT-Harvard-MSR Combinatorics Seminar: New quantitative Helly-type theorems for diameter

    4:15 PM-5:15 PM
    May 4, 2022

    Helly’s theorem is a fundamental statement in discrete and convex geometry  that relates the intersection of a family of convex sets to the  intersections of its subfamilies. This talk surveys recent advances in  quantitative versions of Helly’s theorem, including best-known results  toward proving a 1982 conjecture of Bárány, Katchalski, and Pach. Along  the way, I’ll introduce a new, surprisingly powerful technique for proving  quantitative Helly-type theorems, and we’ll completely characterize the  norms for which there is a “no-loss” Helly-type theorem for diameter.


     

  • 05
    May 5, 2022

    CMSA General Relativity Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

    All day
    May 5, 2022-May 5, 2022
    20 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA 02138

    General Relativity Workshop

    May 2–5, 2022
    Workshop on scalar curvature, minimal surfaces, and initial data sets

     

    Location: Room G10, CMSA, 20 Garden Street, Cambridge MA 02138
    Advanced registration for in-person components is required.
    In-Person Registration is required. Register online.

    Zoom webinar: Registration is required.  Webinar Registration 

    Organizers: Dan Lee (CMSA/CUNY), Martin Lesourd (CMSA/BHI), and Lan-Hsuan Huang (University of Connecticut).

     

    Speakers:

    • Zhongshan An, University of Connecticut
    • Paula Burkhardt-Guim, NYU
    • Hyun Chul Jang, University of Miami
    • Chao Li, NYU
    • Christos Mantoulidis, Rice University
    • Robin Neumayer, Carnegie Mellon University
    • Andre Neves, University of Chicago
    • Tristan Ozuch, MIT
    • Annachiara Piubello, University of Miami
    • Antoine Song, UC Berkeley
    • Tin-Yau Tsang, UC Irvine
    • Ryan Unger, Princeton
    • Zhizhang Xie, Texas A & M
    • Xin Zhou, Cornell University
    • Jonathan Zhu, Princeton University

    Schedule

    Download PDF

    Monday, May 2, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amHyun Chul JangTitle: Mass rigidity for asymptotically locally hyperbolic manifolds with boundary

    Abstract: Asymptotically locally hyperbolic (ALH) manifolds are a class of manifolds whose sectional curvature converges to −1 at infinity. If a given ALH manifold is asymptotic to a static reference manifold, the Wang-Chruściel-Herzlich mass integrals are well-defined, which is a geometric invariant that essentially measure the difference from the reference manifold. In this talk, I will present the result that an ALH manifold which minimize the mass integrals admits a static potential. To show this, we proved the scalar curvature map is locally surjective when it is defined on (1) the space of ALH metrics that coincide exponentially toward the boundary or (2) the space of ALH metrics with arbitrarily prescribed nearby Bartnik boundary data. And then, we establish the rigidity of the known positive mass theorems by studying the static uniqueness. This talk is based on joint work with L.-H. Huang.

    10:40–11:40 amAnnachiara PiubelloTitle: Estimates on the Bartnik mass and their geometric implications.

    Abstract: In this talk, we will discuss some recent estimates on the Bartnik mass for data with non-negative Gauss curvature and positive mean curvature. In particular, if the metric is round the estimate reduces to an estimate found by Miao and if the total mean curvature approaches 0, the estimate tends to 1/2 the area radius, which is the bound found by Mantoulidis and Schoen in the blackhole horizon case. We will then discuss some geometric implications. This is joint work with Pengzi Miao.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmRyan UngerTitle: Density and positive mass theorems for black holes and incomplete manifolds

    Abstract: We generalize the density theorems for the Einstein constraint equations of Corvino-Schoen and Eichmair-Huang-Lee-Schoen to allow for marginally outer trapped boundaries (which correspond physically to apparent horizons). As an application, we resolve the spacetime positive mass theorem in the presence of MOTS boundary in the non-spin case. This also has a surprising application to the Riemannian setting, including a non-filling result for manifolds with negative mass. This is joint work with Martin Lesourd and Dan Lee.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications I

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmAntoine SongTitle: The spherical Plateau problem

    Abstract: For any closed oriented manifold with fundamental group G, or more generally any group homology class for a group G, I will discuss an infinite codimension Plateau problem in a Hilbert classifying space for G. For instance, for a closed oriented 3-manifold M, the intrinsic geometry of any Plateau solution is given by the hyperbolic part of M.

    Tuesday, May 3, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amChao LiTitle: Stable minimal hypersurfaces in 4-manifolds

    Abstract: There have been a classical theory for complete minimal surfaces in 3-manifolds, including the stable Bernstein conjecture in R^3 and rigidity results in 3-manifolds with positive Ricci curvature. In this talk, I will discuss how one may extend these results in four dimensions. This leads to new comparison theorems for positively curved 4-manifolds.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds I

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmZhongshan AnTitle: Local existence and uniqueness of static vacuum extensions of Bartnik boundary data

    Abstract: The study of static vacuum Riemannian metrics arises naturally in differential geometry and general relativity. It plays an important role in scalar curvature deformation, as well as in constructing Einstein spacetimes. Existence of static vacuum Riemannian metrics with prescribed Bartnik data — the induced metric and mean curvature of the boundary — is one of the most fundamental problems in Riemannian geometry related to general relativity. It is also a very interesting problem on the global solvability of a natural geometric boundary value problem. In this talk I will first discuss some basic properties of the nonlinear and linearized static vacuum equations and the geometric boundary conditions. Then I will present some recent progress towards the existence problem of static vacuum metrics based on joint works with Lan-Hsuan Huang.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications II

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmTin-Yau TsangTitle: Dihedral rigidity, fill-in and spacetime positive mass theorem

    Abstract: For compact manifolds with boundary, to characterise the relation between scalar curvature and boundary geometry, Gromov proposed dihedral rigidity conjecture and fill-in conjecture. In this talk, we will see the role of spacetime positive mass theorem in answering the corresponding questions for initial data sets.

    Speakers Banquet

    Wednesday, May 4, 2022

    9:30–10:30 amTristan OzuchTitle: Weighted versions of scalar curvature, mass and spin geometry for Ricci flows

    Abstract: With A. Deruelle, we define a Perelman-like functional for ALE metrics which lets us study the (in)stability of Ricci-flat ALE metrics. With J. Baldauf, we extend some classical objects and formulas from the study of scalar curvature, spin geometry and general relativity to manifolds with densities. We surprisingly find that the extension of ADM mass is the opposite of the above functional introduced with A. Deruelle. Through a weighted Witten’s formula, this functional also equals a weighted spinorial Dirichlet energy on spin manifolds. Ricci flow is the gradient flow of all of these quantities.

    10:40–11:40 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds II

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmChristos MantoulidisTitle: Metrics with lambda_1(-Delta+kR) > 0 and applications to the Riemannian Penrose Inequality

    Abstract: On a closed n-dimensional manifold, consider the space of all Riemannian metrics for which -Delta+kR is positive (nonnegative) definite, where k > 0 and R is the scalar curvature. This spectral generalization of positive (nonnegative) scalar curvature arises naturally, for different values of k, in the study of scalar curvature in dimension n + 1 via minimal surfaces, the Yamabe problem in dimension n, and Perelman’s surgery for Ricci flow in dimension n = 3. We study these spaces in unison and generalize, as appropriate, scalar curvature results that we eventually apply to k = 1/2, where the space above models apparent horizons in time-symmetric initial data sets to the Einstein equations and whose flexibility properties are intimately tied with the instability of the Riemannian Penrose Inequality. This is joint work with Chao Li.

    2:40–3:40 pmZhizhang XieTitle: Gromov’s dihedral extremality/rigidity conjectures and their applications III

    Abstract: Gromov’s dihedral extremality and rigidity conjectures concern comparisons of scalar curvature, mean curvature and dihedral angle for compact manifolds with corners. They have very interesting consequences in geometry and mathematical physics. The conjectures themselves can in some sense be viewed as “localizations” of the positive mass theorem. I will explain some recent work on positive solutions to these conjectures and some related applications (such as a positive solution to the Stoker conjecture). The talks are based on my joint works with Jinmin Wang and Guoliang Yu.

    TEA BREAK
    4:10–5:10 pmXin ZhouTitle: Min-max minimal hypersurfaces with higher multiplicity

    Abstract: It is well known that minimal hypersurfaces produced by the Almgren-Pitts min-max theory are counted with integer multiplicities. For bumpy metrics (which form a generic set), the multiplicities are one thanks to the resolution of the Marques-Neves Multiplicity One Conjecture. In this talk, we will exhibit a set of non-bumpy metrics on the standard (n+1)-sphere, in which the min-max varifold associated with the second volume spectrum is a multiplicity two n-sphere. Such non-bumpy metrics form the first set of examples where the min-max theory must produce higher multiplicity minimal hypersurfaces. The talk is based on a joint work with Zhichao Wang (UBC).

    May 5, 2022

    9:00–10:00 amAndre NevesTitle: Metrics on spheres where all the equators are minimal

    Abstract: I will talk about joint work with Lucas Ambrozio and Fernando Marques where we study the space of metrics where all the equators are minimal.

    10:10–11:10 amRobin NeumayerTitle: An Introduction to $d_p$ Convergence of Riemannian Manifolds III

    Abstract: What can you say about the structure or a-priori regularity of a Riemannian manifold if you know certain bounds on its curvature? To understand this question, it is often important to understand in what sense a sequence of Riemannian manifolds (possessing a given curvature constraint) will converge, and what the limiting objects look like. In this mini-course, we introduce the notions of $d_p$ convergence of Riemannian manifolds and of rectifiable Riemannian spaces, the objects that arise as $d_p$ limits. This type of convergence can be useful in contexts when the distance functions of the Riemannian manifolds are not uniformly controlled. This course is based on joint work with Man Chun Lee and Aaron Naber.

    11:20–12:20 pmPaula Burkhardt-GuimTitle: Lower scalar curvature bounds for C^0 metrics: a Ricci flow approach

    Abstract: We describe some recent work that has been done to generalize the notion of lower scalar curvature bounds to C^0 metrics, including a localized Ricci flow approach. In particular, we show the following: that there is a Ricci flow definition which is stable under greater-than-second-order perturbation of the metric, that there exists a reasonable notion of a Ricci flow starting from C^0 initial data which is smooth for positive times, and that the weak lower scalar curvature bounds are preserved under evolution by the Ricci flow from C^0 initial data.

    LUNCH
    1:30–2:30 pmJonathan ZhuTitle: Widths, minimal submanifolds and symplectic embeddings

    Abstract: Width or waist inequalities measure the size of a manifold with respect to measures of families of submanifolds. We’ll discuss related area estimates for minimal submanifolds, as well as applications to quantitative symplectic camels.


    Program Visitors

    • Dan Lee, CMSA/CUNY, 01/24/22 – 05/20/22
    • Stefan Czimek, Brown, 02/27/22 – 03/03/22
    • Lan-Hsuan Huang, University of Connecticut, 03/13 – 03/19, 03/21 – 03/25, 04/17 – 04/23
    • Mu-Tao Wang, Columbia, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Po-Ning Chen, University of California, Riverside, 03/21/22 – 03/25/22, 05/07/22 – 05/09/22
    • Marnie Smith, Imperial College London, 03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Christopher Stith, University of Michigan, 03/27/22 – 04/23/22
    • Martin Taylor, Imperial College London,  03/27/22 – 04/11/22
    • Marcelo Disconzi, Vanderbilt, 05/02/22 – 05/27/22
    • Lydia Bieri, University of Michigan, 05/05/22 – 05/09/22

    For more information, please see https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/gr-program/

     

    CMSA Interdisciplinary Science Seminar: Qianfang: a type-safe and data-driven healthcare system starting from Traditional Chinese Medicine

    9:00 AM-10:00 AM
    May 5, 2022

    Although everyone talks about AI + healthcare, many people were unaware of the fact that there are two possible outcomes of the collaboration, due to the inherent dissimilarity between the two giant subjects. The first possibility is healthcare-leads, and AI is for building new tools to make steps in healthcare easier, better, more effective or more accurate. The other possibility is AI-leads, and therefore the protocols of healthcare can be redesigned or redefined to make sure that the whole infrastructure and pipelines are ideal for running AI algorithms.

    Our system Qianfang belongs to the second category. We have designed a new kind of clinic for the doctors and patients, so that it will be able to collect high quality data for AI algorithms. Interestingly, the clinic is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) instead of modern medicine, because we believe that TCM is more suitable for AI algorithms as the starting point.

    In this talk, I will elaborate on how we convert TCM knowledge into a modern type-safe large-scale system, the mini-language that we have designed for the doctors and patients, the interpretability of AI decisions, and our feedback loop for collecting data.

    Our project is still on-going, not finished yet.


    For information on how to join, please see:  https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/seminars-and-colloquium/

    Brandeis-Harvard-MIT-Northeastern Joint Colloquium at Harvard

    4:30 PM-5:30 PM
    May 5, 2022
    1 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 USA

    will speak on:

    Higher normal functions and irrationality proofs


    Apéry’s 1978 proof of the irrationality of ζ(3) relied upon two sequences of rational numbers whose ratio limits to ζ(3) very quickly. Beukers and Peters discovered in 1984 that the generating function of the first sequence was a period of a family of K3 surfaces. The corresponding algebro-geometric interpretations for the second generating function and the limit, however, have been missing until recently.

    Normal functions are certain “well-behaved’’ sections of complex torus bundles, first studied by Poincaré and Lefschetz.  They arise in particular from algebraic cycles (formal sums of subvarieties) on families of complex algebraic manifolds.  A more general notion of cycles, due to Bloch and Beilinson and closely related to algebraic K-theory and motivic cohomology, leads to generalizations called “higher normal functions”.  Both sorts of cycles are found lurking beneath many an arithmetic or functional property of periods.

    In this talk, we offer a brief tour of their unexpected role in Apéry’s proof, and in a more general circle of objects surrounding it, including motivic Gamma functions, Feynman integrals, and Fano/LG-model mirror symmetry.  (No knowledge of algebraic cycles will be assumed.)


    Tea at 4:00 pm in the Austine & Chilton McDonnell Common Room, Science Center 4th Floor

    Talk at 4:30 pm in Science Center 507, 5th Floor

  • 06
    May 6, 2022

    2022 NSF FRG Workshop

    All day
    May 6, 2022-May 8, 2022

    On May 6-8, 2022, the CMSA will be hosting a second NSF FRG Workshop.

    This project brings together a community of researchers who develop theoretical and computational models to characterize shapes. Their combined interests span Mathematics (Geometry and Topology), Computer Science (Scientific Computing and Complexity Theory), and domain sciences, from Data Sciences to Computational Biology.

    Scientific research benefits from the development of an ever-growing number of sensors that are able to capture details of the world at increasingly fine resolutions. The seemingly unlimited breadth and depth of these sources provide the means to study complex systems in a more comprehensive way. At the same time, however, these sensors are generating a huge amount of data that comes with a high level of complexity and heterogeneity, providing indirect measurements of hidden processes that provide keys to the systems under study. This has led to new challenges and opportunities in data analysis. Our focus is on image data and the shapes they represent. Advances in geometry and topology have led to powerful new tools that can be applied to geometric methods for representing, searching, simulating, analyzing, and comparing shapes. These methods and tools can be applied in a wide range of fields, including computer vision, biological imaging, brain mapping, target recognition, and satellite image analysis.

    This workshop is part of the NSF FRG project: Geometric and Topological Methods for Analyzing Shapes.

    The workshop will be held in room G10 of the CMSA, located at 20 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA. For a list of lodging options convenient to the Center, please visit our recommended lodgings page.

    We invite junior researchers to present a short talk in the workshop. The talks are expected to be 15-20 minutes in length. It is a great opportunity to share your work and get to know others at the workshop. Depending on the number of contributed talks, the organizers will review the submissions and let you know if you have been selected. If you are interested, please send your title and abstract to FRG2022harvard@gmail.com by 5 pm, April 30, 2022.

    Workshop on Discrete Shapes
    May 6–8, 2022

    Organizers:

    • David Glickenstein (University of Arizona)
    • Joel Hass (University of California, Davis)
    • Patrice Koehl (University of California, Davis)
    • Feng Luo (Rutgers University, New Brunswick)
    • Maria Trnkova (University of California, Davis)
    • Shing-Tung Yau (Harvard)

     

    Current List of Speakers:

    • Miri Ben-Chen (Technion)
    • Chris Bishop (Stony Brook)
    • Alexander Bobenko (TU Berlin)
    • John Bowers (James Madison)
    • Herbert Edelsbrunner  (IST, Austria)
    • Steven Gortler (Harvard)
    • Craig Gotsman (New Jersey Institute of Technology)
    • David Gu (Stony Brook)
    • Anil Hirani (UIUC)
    • Yanwen Luo (Rutgers)
    • Peter Schroeder (Caltech)
    • Justin Solomon (MIT)
    • Tianqi Wu (Clark University)

    For more information, please see https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/2022-frg/

    3:30 PM-4:30 PM
    May 6, 2022
    1 Oxford Street, Cambridge, MA 02138 USA

    I’ll recall the braid-theoretic characterization of knots in the 3-sphere bounding complex curves in the 4-ball due to Rudolph and Boileau-Orevkov, discuss generalizations to other 3-manifolds and fillings, a conjectural characterization in terms of transverse knot theory, and proof of this conjecture using knot Floer homology in some special cases.  Parts of the talk will touch upon joint work in progress with Tovstopyat-Nelip and Baykur-Etnyre-Hayden-Van Horn-Morris.


     

  • 07
    May 7, 2022

    2022 NSF FRG Workshop

    All day
    May 7, 2022-May 8, 2022

    On May 6-8, 2022, the CMSA will be hosting a second NSF FRG Workshop.

    This project brings together a community of researchers who develop theoretical and computational models to characterize shapes. Their combined interests span Mathematics (Geometry and Topology), Computer Science (Scientific Computing and Complexity Theory), and domain sciences, from Data Sciences to Computational Biology.

    Scientific research benefits from the development of an ever-growing number of sensors that are able to capture details of the world at increasingly fine resolutions. The seemingly unlimited breadth and depth of these sources provide the means to study complex systems in a more comprehensive way. At the same time, however, these sensors are generating a huge amount of data that comes with a high level of complexity and heterogeneity, providing indirect measurements of hidden processes that provide keys to the systems under study. This has led to new challenges and opportunities in data analysis. Our focus is on image data and the shapes they represent. Advances in geometry and topology have led to powerful new tools that can be applied to geometric methods for representing, searching, simulating, analyzing, and comparing shapes. These methods and tools can be applied in a wide range of fields, including computer vision, biological imaging, brain mapping, target recognition, and satellite image analysis.

    This workshop is part of the NSF FRG project: Geometric and Topological Methods for Analyzing Shapes.

    The workshop will be held in room G10 of the CMSA, located at 20 Garden Street, Cambridge, MA. For a list of lodging options convenient to the Center, please visit our recommended lodgings page.

    We invite junior researchers to present a short talk in the workshop. The talks are expected to be 15-20 minutes in length. It is a great opportunity to share your work and get to know others at the workshop. Depending on the number of contributed talks, the organizers will review the submissions and let you know if you have been selected. If you are interested, please send your title and abstract to FRG2022harvard@gmail.com by 5 pm, April 30, 2022.

    Workshop on Discrete Shapes
    May 6–8, 2022

    Organizers:

    • David Glickenstein (University of Arizona)
    • Joel Hass (University of California, Davis)
    • Patrice Koehl (University of California, Davis)
    • Feng Luo (Rutgers University, New Brunswick)
    • Maria Trnkova (University of California, Davis)
    • Shing-Tung Yau (Harvard)

     

    Current List of Speakers:

    • Miri Ben-Chen (Technion)
    • Chris Bishop (Stony Brook)
    • Alexander Bobenko (TU Berlin)
    • John Bowers (James Madison)
    • Herbert Edelsbrunner  (IST, Austria)
    • Steven Gortler (Harvard)
    • Craig Gotsman (New Jersey Institute of Technology)
    • David Gu (Stony Brook)
    • Anil Hirani (UIUC)
    • Yanwen Luo (Rutgers)
    • Peter Schroeder (Caltech)
    • Justin Solomon (MIT)
    • Tianqi Wu (Clark University)

    For more information, please see https://cmsa.fas.harvard.edu/2022-frg/