Path Integrals and State Sums for General Defect TQFTs

Explore advanced mathematical physics concepts in this 42-minute seminar lecture delivered by Dr. Kevin Walker from Microsoft. Delve into the intricate mathematical frameworks of path integrals and state sums as they apply to general defect topological quantum field theories (TQFTs). Learn how these powerful computational tools provide systematic approaches to understanding quantum field theories that incorporate boundaries, impurities, and defects. Examine the theoretical foundations that connect path integral formulations with state sum constructions in the context of defect TQFTs, gaining insights into how these mathematical structures capture the behavior of quantum systems with various types of topological defects. Discover the applications and implications of these advanced techniques for understanding quantum field theories beyond the standard homogeneous case, as part of the broader research program on quantum field theory with boundaries, impurities, and defects.