Max-Planck-Institut für Mathematik

The field of homotopy theory originated in the study of topological spaces up to deformation, but has since been applied effectively in several other disciplines. Indeed, homotopical ideas lead to the resolution of several long-standing open conjectures, for instance on smooth structures on spheres, the moduli of curves, and the cohomology of fields. More recently, Bhatt, Morrow, and Scholze used homotopical methods to compare different cohomology theories for algebraic varieties, thereby resolving open questions in arithmetic geometry. In a similarly arithmetic vein, Galatius and Venkatesh initiated the study of Galois representations with homotopical means, whereas Clausen and Scholze revisited the foundations of analytic topology. These and other recent developments in the interface of arithmetic and topology opened up new lines of attack towards classical open questions, which sparked a wide range of current research activities. This conference intends to survey some of the most spectacular recent advances in the fields, thereby paving the way to new developments and future interactions. Our goal is to foster scientific exchange and collaboration between established researchers, emerging leaders, early career mathematicians, and graduate students.

This will be a split transatlantic conference taking place at the Fields Institute in Canada and the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in Germany, with videoconferencing connections in place to help collaboration. The concept of the twinned conference was motivated by the desire to reduce environmental impact of conference travels. Our hope is that this initiative will help reduce transatlantic flights, while still promoting long distance interactions. The goal of this twinned conference is to bring together experts on Homotopy Theory and adjacent areas to discuss the forefront of current developments in this highly active field.

We especially welcome applications from members of minority groups.