Title: Modular Conformal Algebras
Abstract: Conformal algebras first appeared in the attempt
to provide rigorous algebraic foundations for conformal field theory. From a
purely mathematical point of view, they describe a rich class of
infinite-dimensional Lie algebras. So far, we have a lot of examples of
conformal algebras but many classification
questions are still wide open, in part because standard representation-theoretic
methods often fail in the setting of conformal algebras. A new idea is to
switch to characteristic p and use analogs of conformal algebras as a "testing
ground" for the characteristic zero case. I will give a general introduction to
conformal algebras and discuss what new insights we can gain from these
characteristic p analogs.
Please mention/email this talk to any interested parties and to your students if you are teaching an advanced undergraduate algebra class or a graduate algebra class.
1Driving & Parking (Revised Sept 4, 2004)
If you are travelling from out of town, a map of UTA may be found at
http://www.uta.edu/maps/. Note that
PKH is the triangular building in the central-campus region of the map. Click
on central campus to zoom in, and PKH is in the SE corner of that submap, next
to the "garage" & is on Nedderman Drive between College St & West
St. West St is now one-way northbound between W Mitchell St and 3rd St.
Parking is available in the nearby (East and SE of PKH) parking lots
with a UTA permit (but many people park there late on Fridays with no permit
and are not caught). Visitor (free), & metered, parking is available
by Davis Hall (marked DH in SW part of submap). A parking garage ($7 max)
is next door to PKH (use West St to get to it). Note that if heading south
on Cooper, then no left turn is allowed to Nedderman Drive.
Recommended route from UNT: eventually head south on Hwy 360 (or Industrial
Blvd = Collins), West on Abram, south (left) on Center, West (right) on
W Mitchell. Then use map. Alternatively, get to I30 heading East, & follow
directions from TCU given below. From TCU: east on I30, exit Cooper, South
on Cooper, left (East) on W Mitchell, then use map.
(Note that Nedderman Drive between West St and Pecan St is now permanently
closed.)Note that PKH 487 is on the 4th floor of PKH; turn right out of elevator
on 4th floor.
Questions, etc on arrangements/directions? Contact Minerva Cordero at cordero@uta.edu.