Claremont Topology Seminar: Vijay Higgins (UCLA)

We welcome all undergraduate/graduate students and faculty to attend topology seminar!

Speaker: Vijay Higgins (UCLA)

Title: Webs and skein algebras

Abstract: The Jones polynomial of a link can be computed diagrammatically by using skein relations, which encode the representation theory of SL(2). By considering the vector space spanned by links drawn on a surface and imposing these skein relations, we obtain an algebra known as the Kauffman bracket skein algebra of the surface. These algebras have been studied by many authors, including F. Bonahon and H. Wong, and much is known about their structure. Replacing SL(2) by SL(3) or any other higher rank Lie group gives rise to a new skein algebra involving not only links but also certain graphs called webs. In this talk, we will discuss some of the complications involved with studying skein algebras built from webs on surfaces and then present ways of getting around them. Some of this work is joint with F. Bonahon.