Introduction to Conformal Bootstrap and Numerical Methods - Special Seminar

Learn the fundamental principles and practical applications of the numerical conformal bootstrap method in this special seminar from Harvard University physicist Shai Chester. Explore essential concepts of conformal field theory in higher dimensions, master computational techniques for conformal blocks, and understand how to formulate crossing equations as semi-definite programming problems. Work through hands-on examples and problem sets focused on 3D CFTs with Z2 and O(N) global symmetries, culminating in precise calculations of 3D Ising model critical exponents using mixed correlator Z2 bootstrap. Gain practical experience using SDPB software on personal computers, utilize provided Mathematica wrapper and Docker tools, and discover the broader landscape of conformal bootstrap applications and future research directions. Master topics including recursion relations, truncation, semidefinite programs, polynomial constraints, and unit operator crossing through a combination of theoretical instruction and practical implementation.