Geometry and Physics of String Compactifications

String theory is a fundamental framework for a consistent quantum description of particle physics and gravity. The compactification of six of the ten spacetime dimensions in which this theory is formulated connects string theory to observations. The key role played by the geometry of these compactifications thus places modern mathematical methods in the centre of present day theoretical high energy physics and cosmology.

This workshop brings together international experts in mathematics and string theory to investigate string compactifications and their underlying geometric structure. Among the topics to be studied will be the geometry of elliptically fibered Calabi-Yau fourfolds from the perspective of F-theory compactifications, open-closed moduli spaces in compactifications with D-branes and flux compactifications. The aim of the workshop is to stimulate interactions of mathematicians and physicists by emphasising current mathematical questions and challenges in recent research on string compactifications, explaining their relevance for theoretical physics and highlighting modern mathematical techniques for their solution.

Kontakt:

PD Dr. Timo Weigand
Institut für Theoretische Physik
Universität Heidelberg
Philosophenweg 19
69120 Heidelberg       

Tel.:+49 (0)6221 54 9441                

E-Mail: t.weigand@thphys.uni-heidelberg.de