Bordisms and Probes of Quantum Gravity

Our understanding of high-energy physics is rooted in quantum field theory defined over a background spacetime. However, at energies approaching the Planck scale, physics is described by theories of quantum gravity (QG), such as String Theory. Intriguingly, quantum gravity's effects permeate into lower energy scales, constraining Effective Field Theories (EFTs) that stem from it. The Swampland Program aims to establish criteria for the consistent UV completion of low-energy EFTs to quantum gravity. In this talk, I will demonstrate how bordism groups play a pivotal role in various aspects of this program. First, I will outline how these groups can detect potential gauge and gravitational anomalies within EFTs. Then, I will describe their role in predicting the existence of new extended objects in QG theories, through what is known as the Cobordism Conjecture. Finally, I will explain how these objects would appear to low-energy observers in spacetime, examining whether or not they could serve as tools to probe quantum gravitational effects.

Supervisors: Miguel Montero and Ángel Uranga

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IFT