PHYS 572: Modern Quantum Field Theory (Spring quarter, 2026)
Instructor: Silas Beane B457 OH: T W Th
TA:
Subject matter
PHYS 572 will begin by covering anomalies in gauge theories. We will begin with the heuristic "Dirac sea" approach and then proceed to consider the standard Fujikawa method, the connections between anomalies in various dimensions, gauge anomalies and their cancellation in the Standard Model, 't Hooft anomalies and anomaly matching constraints, and, if time allows, aspects of non-perturbative anomalies.
The second part of the course will focus on effective field theory (EFT) with an emphasis on non-relativistic (NR) EFT. Much of the field-theory technology introduced in 570 and 571 finds fruitful realization in the non-relativistic setting, including Feynman diagram and path integral techniques, regularization and renormalization, renormalization group (RG) fixed points and flows, the operator product expansion, non-relativistic conformal invariance (Schrödinger symmetry), and spontaneous symmetry breaking and the EFT of Goldstone modes. Few-body systems will be considered in some detail, with a focus on two- and three-body systems. Many-body systems of bosons and fermions will then be considered; topics will include Bose-Einstein condensation, Fermi liquid theory and superfluidity. Throughout the course, topical applications will be drawn from atomic, condensed matter, nuclear and particle physics.
Logistics
There will be approximately four problem sets throughout the quarter and no exams. In the last week there will be short student presentations on topics of interest. Lecture notes are available on Canvas.
Religious Accommodations
Washington state law requires that UW develop a policy for accommodation of student absences or significant hardship due to reasons of faith or conscience, or for organized religious activities.
The UW’s policy, including more information about how to request an accommodation, is available at Religious Accommodations Policy (https://registrar.washington.edu/staffandfaculty/religious-accommodations-policy/).
Accommodations must be requested within the first two weeks of this course using the Religious Accommodations Request form (https://registrar.washington.edu/students/religious-accommodations-request/).