The study of symmetries is at the heart of theoretical physics. Their mathematical description enables physicists to constrain the form of the possible physical laws, which has led to substantial progress in unifying the forces of Nature. This was central for the development of the Standard Model of particle physics, our most accurate theory of nature to date. It has limitations though, and symmetries also lie at the core of the ideas for going beyond. Foremost among these are for instance supersymmetry and string theory, which fall into the realm of high-energy physics.
Symmetries also play a central role in the studies of Noah Roux, student in the joint Master in High-Energy Physics between ETH Zürich and Ecole Polytechnique (France) and Xavier Kervyn, currently pursuing a master in theoretical and mathematical physics at the LMU and TUM in Munich (Germany). The former is interested in non-perturbative quantum field theory, an approach which has been gaining in popularity recently, while the latter aims at contributing to new top-down approaches to flat-space holography, a topic closely related to the search of a coherent quantum theory of gravity.
In this peer event, Noah and Xavier, both members of the Swiss Study Foundation, will try to bridge the gap between diverse backgrounds and shed light on the fundamental and unifying concept of symmetries in the realm of physics. We will gradually discover how symmetries appear in various ways, starting from familiar examples such as the symmetries of a snowflake, and up to recent developments in quantum gravity. Whether you are already a physicist or simply a curious mind, join us on a journey through the symmetrical beauty of theoretical physics and get ready to uncover the hidden order and harmony that symmetries bring to a wide range of physical phenomena and their underlying mathematical concepts.
This event is intended to a wide audience, non-STEM student welcome! Students in the field are also welcome to attend, but please note that the presentation will be targeting a non-expert public.
Date and time: Thursday, 14th December 2023, 18:00 – 20:00 CET
Place: online (Zoom)
Lead: Noah Roux and Xavier Kervyn
Coordination: Silvan Moser
Administration: Michelle Hug
