Introduction to Effective Field Theory and Many-Body Problems

Quantum field theory (QFT) has been formulated as a theoretical tool to describe elementary particles and nuclei. However, after introducing the concept of "effective field theory," QFT has been providing a general and powerful theoretical framework for describing various universal phenomena in broader range of physical systems, including condensed matter physics and statistical physics.
In this lecture, we will explore the basic aspects of field theory by employing it to address quantum many-body problems in simple nonrelativistic systems.

The topics covered will include:

Lecture 1: Low-energy scattering and renormalization in quantum mechanics
Lecture 2: Effective field theory of low-energy scattering
Lecture 3: Spontaneous symmetry breaking in weakly-interacting bose gas
Lecture 4: Effective field theory of superfluid
Lecture 5: Introduction to in-medium potential
Lecture 6: Complex-valued in-medium potential between heavy impurities in ultracold atoms

The aim is to provide an introductory overview and explanation of basics concepts in field theory.

Schedule:

Wed., Dec. 27
10:00 - 11:30: Lecture 1
13:00 - 14:30: Lecture 2
15:00 - 16:30: Lecture 3

Thur., Dec. 28
10:00 - 11:30: Lecture 4
13:00 - 14:30: Lecture 5
15:00 - 16:30: Lecture 6