Particle Theory Seminar - Monica Pate - New York University

Infinite Symmetry Algebras in Four-Dimensional Conformal Field Theories

The discovery of a universal symmetry algebra of w(1+infinity) among the asymptotic symmetries of four-dimensional asymptotically flat spacetimes has driven a lot of recent activity in the subject of celestial holography and holography for asymptotically flat gravitational systems more generally. In this seminar, I will present a precise avatar of this universal symmetry algebra that persists in the absence of gravity and in particular arises in generic interacting four-dimensional conformal field theories. The generators are light-ray operators formed from null integrals of the stress tensor that generalize the average null energy operator. I will comment on potential implications for conformal field theories in d > 2 and celestial holography.

Host: Ian Moult