Path Integrals and State Sums for General Defect TQFTs

Explore path integrals and state sums for general defect topological quantum field theories in this 40-minute conference talk delivered by Dr. Kevin Walker from Microsoft. Delve into advanced mathematical concepts at the intersection of quantum field theory and topology, focusing on how path integral formulations and state sum constructions apply to TQFTs with defects. Learn about the mathematical frameworks used to describe quantum field theories that incorporate boundaries, impurities, and defects, gaining insights into cutting-edge research in mathematical physics. Discover the theoretical foundations and computational approaches that enable the study of these complex quantum systems, presented as part of the Isaac Newton Institute's programme on quantum field theory with boundaries, impurities, and defects.