Conformal Field theory and Gravity
Frequency
Every year
Summary
This course is an introduction to holography, the modern approach to quantum gravity.
Content
1. Motivation from black hole thermodynamics
2. The very basics of string theory
3. Statement of the correspondence (discussion of the decoupling limit)
4. A basic introduction to CFT and to the geometry of AdS
5. Computing correlation functions (time permitting: holographic renormalization, real time, finite temperature)
6. Entanglement and the emergence of gravity (time permitting)
7. Beyond AdS/CFT: non-conformal and other backgrounds
Keywords
gauge/gravity duality
Learning Prerequisites
Required courses
Quantum Field Theory, General Relativity
Recommended courses
Quantum Field Theory, General Relativity
Advanced Quantum Field Theory, Gauge Theories and the Standard Model
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, the student must be able to:
- Understand the AdS/CFT correspondence and its implications for Quantum Gravity
- Perform and explain calculations in CFT and Gravity
Teaching methods
Black board lectures and problem solving sessions.
Expected student activities
Attendance of lectures and problem solving sessions. Critical study of the material.
Assessment methods
Indicidual project and oral exam.
Resources
Bibliography
Slava Rychkov, lectures notes on CFT, http://arxiv.org/abs/1601.05000
David Simmos-Duffin, lecture notes on CFT, http://arxiv.org/abs/1602.07982
Joao Penedones, lecture notes on AdS/CFT, https://arxiv.org/abs/1608.04948
Moodle Link
In the programs
- Exam form: Oral (session free)
- Subject examined: Conformal Field theory and Gravity
- Lecture: 28 Hour(s)
- Exercises: 28 Hour(s)
- Type: optional