CAREER: Algebra and Representation Theory for Non-Semisimple Topological Field Theory

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $450,000 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

This award will support research in the field of algebra and representation theory with connections to theoretical physics. Representation theory is the branch of mathematics concerned with the study of symmetry using techniques from linear algebra, such as vectors and matrices. Classical examples of symmetry include rotations of a circle and reflections of a square. Modern research in mathematics naturally encounters more abstract notions of symmetry and requires the development of more advanced techniques for their study. The PI will identify and study concrete instances of these abstract symmetries and apply the results to advance the mathematical understanding of quantum field theory in dimensions two and three. The research will also develop new connections between algebra, representation theory, and low dimensional topology. This project integrates education, research, and career training opportunities for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. Examples include creating a series of videos which will improve the algebra education of Utah's high school mathematics teachers-in-training, and organizing the graduate student focused Moab Topology Conference. In more detail, the PI will engage in three related research projects. Each project is motivated by and has direct implications for the long-standing conjecture that Rozansky-Witten theory, a three dimensional supersymmetric quantum field theory, defines a non-semisimple topological field theory. In the fi

Key facts

NSF award ID
2440471
Awardee
Utah State University (UT)
SAM.gov UEI
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PI
Matthew B Young
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
CAREER-Faculty Erly Career Dev
Estimated total
$450,000
Funds obligated
$281,548
Transaction type
Continuing Grant
Period
09/01/2025 → 08/31/2030