CMSA Quantum Matter in Mathematics and Physics: Symmetry-enriched random critical points and topological phase transitions

CMSA EVENTS

Speaker:

Romain Vasseur - UMass Amherst

In this talk, I will describe how symmetry can enrich strong-randomness quantum critical points and phases, and lead to robust topological edge modes coexisting with critical bulk fluctuations. Our approach provides a systematic construction of strongly disordered gapless topological phases. Using real space renormalization group techniques, I will discuss the boundary and bulk critical behavior of symmetry-enriched random quantum spin chains, and argue that nonlocal observables and boundary critical behavior are controlled by new renormalization group fixed points. I will also discuss the interplay between disorder, quantum criticality and topology in higher dimensions using disordered gauge theories.

Zoom: https://harvard.zoom.us/j/977347126