Lessons on and from Quantum Gravity | with Cliff Burgess
A quantum understanding of gravity often necessitates novel perspectives and methodologies. These approaches are sometimes intentionally designed for this purpose, while at other times, they are borrowed from diverse areas within physics. Interestingly, the very perspectives and techniques developed for quantum gravity can prove valuable in examining other physical systems, even those seemingly disparate, such as solid-state physics. In this context, Professor Burgess exhibits a remarkable ability to traverse different fields like an acrobat, identifying commonalities between quantum gravity—especially string theory—cosmology, and condensed matter physics. He adeptly employs and acquires useful tools for his multifaceted inquiries.
Professor Cliff Burgess, a distinguished Canadian high-energy particle theorist, focuses his research on particle physics and string theory, extending into cosmology and condensed matter physics. His investigations encompass diverse topics, including open effective field theories, decoherence, gravity as a medium, dark energy, supersymmetric large extra dimensions, string inflation, quantum Hall systems, and ADS/CFT duality. Currently serving as a Professor at McMaster University in Hamilton and an associate faculty member at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Waterloo, Canada, Professor Burgess continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of our understanding of fundamental physics.