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Atlantic TQFT Spring School 2026

May 18–22, Dalhousie University, Halifax.

Précis

Topological Quantum Field Theory (TQFT) emerged in the 1980s from work of Witten, Segal, and Atiyah interpreting quantum field theory through cobordism categories. Its development led to powerful invariants in low-dimensional topology, such as the Jones polynomial and Donaldson invariants, and initiated the study of quantum groups in representation theory. The formalism for TQFTs has continued to evolve to incorporate the physically-realistic properties of locality and unitarity, using insights from higher category theory (notably through work by Baez, Dolan, and Lurie). Today, TQFTs play a central role in both mathematics and theoretical physics, especially in understanding global symmetries and the low-energy behaviour of gapped systems. In particular, they play a central role in the study of topological phases of matter.

As the fields of higher algebra and category theory mature, TQFTs serve as a natural meeting ground for researchers exploring fundamental structures in geometry, topology, algebra, and mathematical physics. This Spring School will provide an introduction to some aspects of TQFT. The intended audience are early- and mid-career graduate students; more advanced students are also welcome. Students are expected to know the language of category theory, but are not expected to be experts in topology or quantum field theory. Priority will be given to students from Atlantic Canada and to students from groups traditionally underrepresented in mathematics.

Classes and instructors

Registration

Interested participants should apply before 31 March 2026.

There is no registration fee. The direct costs of housing will be covered for all current graduate students (more advanced researchers who wish to participate are expected to cover their own housing).

For questions, please write to the organizers:

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