Tentative plan:
| 1) | Formal power series, local fields |
| 2) | Vertex Algebras |
| 3) | Conformal symmetry |
| 4) | Vertex Operator Algebras |
| 5) | Correlation functions |
| 6) | VOAs from lattices |
| 7) | Connection to modular forms: Zhu's Theorem |
| 8) | Connection to Monstrous Moonshine |
Basic algebra and linear algebra. Some background in quantum mechanics is helpful, but not necessary.
Examples will be discussed during the lectures. There are no separate exercise classes.
On October 25 and November 1 there will be discussion sessions on modular forms and conformal symmetry, respectively. Please prepare by working through the following exercise sheets: