Distinguished, Speculative, first of April talk and University Seminar

Distinguished, Speculative, first of April talk and University Seminar,   

Speaker: Rhea Palak Bakshi (ETH Zurich)

Time: Wednesday, April 3, 11:15am to 12:15 pm 

Place: Phillips 109

Title: Speculations in Skein Theory 

Abstract: The advent of skein polynomials in the 1980s revolutionised the field of knot theory in the 3-sphere, putting it at the forefront of research in topology. These polynomials have defining skein relations, which are linear relations involving two or more knot or link diagrams. Their generalisation by Przytycki to arbitrary topological spaces with 3 or more dimensions further metamorphosed the field of quantum topology, connecting it to hyperbolic and algebraic geometry and mathematical physics. Research in the field of skein theory has taken great strides in the last decade or so, but there is still plenty to be done. In this talk we will touch upon various conjectures and open questions that have emerged in skein theory. The talk will be accessible to advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students.