Mathematics Colloquium: Hitchin systems in mathematics and beyond

Speaker: Steven Rayan, Centre for Quantum Topology and Its Applications (quanTA) / University of Saskatchewan

Title: Hitchin systems in mathematics and beyond

Abstract:
The Hitchin system is a moduli space arising from the geometric study of the Yang-Mills equations on Riemann surfaces. Over the past 30 years it has become both a unifying structure and an important tool for probing many questions at the interface of algebraic geometry, representation theory, integrable systems, and combinatorics. I intend to survey a number of its fascinating features and will conclude by speculating on new connections between the Hitchin system and physics.

Time: Friday, February 21, 2020, 3:30-4:20 p.m.

Place: Exploratory Hall, room 4106

Refreshments will be served at 3:00 p.m.