DTC PHYS 14 - Conformal quantum mechanics of impurities and holography

The quantum mechanics of point-like "impurities" placed inside extended quantum systems plays an important role in a number of important physical applications such as high-T superconductivity and the Kondo effect. In this project we will study large-N quantum mechanics of such an impurity placed in an ambient higher dimensional conformal quantum field theory, with deformations localized on the impurity that drive the system away from the conformal point. We will apply large-N saddle point methods to solve such quantum mechanical problems using both numerical and analytical methods in order to understand renormalization group flows in such models, paying specific attention to those for which results are independently known or expected from their representation in a holographic /dual gravitational framework.

Entry requirements

Candidates must have a minimum of an upper second class honours degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, or an appropriate Master’s degree (with Merit). Informal enquiries are welcome by emailing the project supervisor.

For candidates whose first language is not English, we require IELTS 6.5 (with 6.0 in each component) or equivalent. Please visit our website for a list of acceptable English language tests. We prefer candidates to have already met the English Language requirements at the point of application, although this is not a requirement.

How to apply

Visit our webpage for details - http://www.swansea.ac.uk/science/research/dtc/biosciences-projects-2018-19/

Please include the project ID and title in your email subject header (eg. DTC PHYS xxxxxx)