Gauge Theories and String Theory Dynamics

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Quantum Field Theory (QFT) exemplifies the power of principles in physics. It is the inevitable framework merging two of the most fundamental and transformative principles in science: Quantum Mechanics and Relativity. Because of this, QFT is at the heart of all modern physics. It describes, with unprecedented success, many phenomena in nature, including in high energy physics, cosmology and condensed matter physics. It has even deeply impacted mathematics. The predictions of QFT describing the Standard Model of Particle Physics have been spectacularly confirmed by the discovery of the Higgs boson at the Large Hadron Collider. Also, data from the Planck satellite have strengthened the picture explaining the origin of the large scale structure of the Universe as being seeded by fluctuations of a quantum field. These are unparalleled triumphs in the history of QFT. Despite these breakthroughs, our understanding of QFT in the nonperturbative regime, where quantum effects are very large- is very far from complete. My research program investigates the physical properties and phenomena that nonperturbative systems can exhibit.  These systems have by in large remained unexplored. This includes the use of new ideas and techniques that have recently become available and that allow to answer, for the first time, long standing questions in QFT, directly relevant to particle physics, condensed matter physics and even mathematics. My team's objective is to solve for the low energy nonperturbative dynamics of QFTs. The answer to these questions can lead to the prediction of new quantum states of matter, such as topological superconductors, with unforeseen technological spinoffs.   String theory is the leading candidate for a theory of quantum gravity and unifies the fundamental forces of particle physics with gravity. It merges the physics at the smallest distances, governed by quantum mechanics, with the physics at the largest distances, governed by gravity. This has led to a wealth of insights about the structure of spacetime and matter at short distances.   A central aim of this proposal is to develop the physical foundations of a new type of string theory we have recently constructed and dubbed by Nonrelativistic String Theory, which is based on novel symmetries and principles. This string theory describes the propagation and interactions of strings on a new type of curved spacetime geometry that is distinct from the geometry underlying  General Relativity. My team of HQPs and I aim to explore and develop the physical and mathematical properties of the new low energy gravitational theory and  QFTs emerging at low energies from this new string theory.  These theories have symmetries that can appear in various quantum many body systems, where distinct symmetries, including nonrelativistic symmetries, can be realized. This could lead to a new framework to manipulate and model strongly coupled systems, leading to novel materials and technologies.