Talbot 2012

Mentored by Gregory Arone of the University of Virginia and Michael Ching of Amherst College

The 2012 workshop, aimed toward graduate students and other young researchers, focused on understanding the foundations and applications of Goodwillie's calculus of functors. 

We began with definitions and first examples, including the construction of the Taylor tower, studying the operad and module structures on derivatives, and classifying homogeneous and polynomial functors. We discussed homotopy calculus, manifold calculus, and orthogonal calculus, studying the interplay between them, and we also studied applications to homotopy theory, algebraic K-theory and geometric topology.

 The workshop discussions will have an expository character and most of the talks will be given by participants. The afternoon schedule will be kept clear for informal discussions and collaborations.

We cover all local expenses, including lodging and food. We also have limited funding available for participants' travel costs.

Talbot is meant to encourage collaboration among young researchers, particularly graduate students. To this end, the workshop aims to gather participants with a diverse array of knowledge and interests, so applicants need not be an expert in the field. In particular, students at all levels of graduate education are encouraged to apply.