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Supersymmetry and Conformal Field Theory

Key information

  • Module code:

    7CCMMS40

  • Level:

    7

  • Semester:

      Spring

  • Credit value:

    15

Module description

Syllabus

Nontrivial extensions of the Poincare algebra to include supersymmetry and conformal symmetry. Spinors and Clifford algebras. Representation theory of the supersymmetry algebra and conformal algebra. N=1 models of supersymmetry in four dimensions. Scale dependence of supersymmetric gauge theories with matter. Additional topics at the discretion of the lecturer: supersymmetric quantum mechanics, constraints of conformal symmetry on correlation functions, Virasoro and super Virasoro symmetry in two dimensions, superspace techniques, supergravity, supersymmetric standard model, supersymmetry in other dimensions, supersymmetry breaking, extended supersymmetry, supersymmetric localization, and other suitable advanced topics.

Prerequisites

You should be familiar with quantum field theory, special relativity and field theory in the Lagrangian formalism. Knowledge of Lie algebras is also an advantage. You are advised to take 7CCMMS32.

Assessment details

Written examination.

Educational aims & objectives

Supersymmetry is one of the most promising approaches to understanding particle physics beyond the ‘standard model' and is also the underpinning of the most recent ideas in theoretical physics such as superstring theories. This course provides the mathematical background to this area and to enable one both to appreciate some of the beauty of this subject and also to prepare one to study the current research literature in this area.

Teaching pattern

Two hours of lectures and one hour of tutorial per week throughout the term

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.