TSVP Talk: "Generalized Symmetries in Quantum Matter" by Zhu-Xi Luo

Title: Generalized Symmetries in Quantum Matter

Abstract: Symmetry has long been a cornerstone of physics, underpinning conservation laws, fundamental interactions, and the classification of phases of matter. In recent years, profound generalizations of symmetry have emerged, extending beyond the traditional framework of point-like transformations in closed systems. These include higher-form symmetries, subsystem symmetries, non-invertible symmetries, and symmetries in mixed-state quantum systems, among others. This broader perspective is reshaping our understanding of quantum matter, uncovering deep connections between anomalies, dualities, and phases beyond the conventional Landau paradigm. In this talk, I will present key examples of generalized symmetries in an accessible manner, highlight their role in modern quantum many-body physics, and discuss how they unify ideas across high-energy physics, condensed matter, and quantum information science.

Speaker: Zhu-Xi Luo (Georgia Institute of Technology. USA)

Profile: Dr. Luo obtained her PhD from University of Utah in 2019, after which she moved to Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics University of California, Santa Barbara as a Simons postdoctoral fellow. In 2022 she joined Harvard University as a postdoc. She has been an assistant professor at Georgia Institute of Technology since 2024. Her research interest lies in strongly correlated electrons and its intersections with other fields in theoretical physics. More specifically, her recent works focus on moiré physics and generalized symmetries.

Language: English

Target audience: General audience/everyone at OIST and beyond.
Freely accessible to all OIST members and guests without registration.

We encourage everyone on campus to participate in person, for those who cannot the lecture will also be broadcast on zoom:
Join zoom
Meeting ID: 951 6246 7389
Passcode: 331284

This general-audience talk is part of the Thematic Program on "Generalized Symmetries in Quantum Matter" which is being held at OIST from May 12 until July 4. The program will focus on the role of novel symmetries in a wide range of systems, from quantum magnetism to gauge theories to open quantum systems. 

For more information, please see the program website here. Anyone interested in participating in the Thematic Program activities can stay up-to-date by signing up here for a mailing list or by joining the program's Slack here.

※ Please note that this event may be recorded and the videos uploaded. In addition, photos may be taken during the event. These are intended for publication online (the OIST website, social media, etc.)※