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Advanced Mathematical Physics - MAT00099M

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  • Department: Mathematics
  • Module co-ordinator: Prof. Kasia Rejzner
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

Building on the Quantum Field Theory module and using some results from the General Relativity module, this module introduces three topics in advanced mathematical physics, each of which is connected to important areas of research. The main focus is quantum field theory and the topics will include: path integrals, conformal field theory and QFT on curved spacetimes

Related modules

Pre-requisite modules

Co-requisite modules

  • None

Prohibited combinations

  • None

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2024-25

Module aims

Building on the Quantum Field Theory module and using some results from the General Relativity module, this module introduces three topics in advanced mathematical physics, each of which is connected to important areas of research. The main focus is quantum field theory and the topics will include: path integrals, conformal field theory and QFT on curved spacetimes.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students will be able to:

  1. Solve problems involving interacting quantum fields.

  2. Quantize simple field theories on curved spacetimes.

  3. Perform basic computations in conformal field theory.

Module content

Building on the Quantum Field Theory module and using some results from the General Relativity module, this module introduces three topics in advanced mathematical physics, each of which is connected to important areas of research. The main focus is quantum field theory and the topics will include: path integrals, conformal field theory and QFT on curved spacetimes.

Assessment

Task Length % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled)
Advanced Mathematical Physics		 3 hours 100

Special assessment rules

None

Reassessment

Task Length % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled)
Advanced Mathematical Physics		 3 hours 100

Module feedback

Current Department policy on feedback is available in the student handbook. Coursework and examinations will be marked and returned in accordance with this policy.

Indicative reading

L. Takhtajan, Quantum mechanics for mathematicians, Graduate Studies in Mathematics, vol. 95, American Mathematical Society, Providence, RI, 2008.

G. Roepstor, Path integral approach to quantum physics: an introduction, Springer Science and Business Media, 2012.

ND Birrell and PCW Davies. Quantum Fields in Curved Space (Cambridge University Press) U 0.143 BIR

M. Schottenloher, A mathematical introduction to conformal field theory, Lect. Notes Phys. 759 (2008) 1.

P. H. Ginsparg, Applied Conformal Field Theory, hep-th/9108028.


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University is constantly exploring ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Where appropriate, the University will notify and consult with affected students in advance about any changes that are required in line with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.