Algebra Seminar: Meir -- Geometry of braidings

Ehud Meir (University of Aberdeen) will be speaking in the algebra seminar.  We will go
out for lunch after the talk---all are welcome to join! 

When: 12-1pm Friday October 23 

Where: Carslaw 275 

Title: Geometry of braidings 

Abstract: Solutions to the Yang Baxter Equation (or braidings) play an important role in
the theory of Hopf algebras and monoidal categories.  In this talk we will consider the
YB Equation from an algebro-geometric perspective.  I will explain how algebraic group
actions and invariant theory enter the picture, and some applications in the theory of
Nichols algebras.  If time permits, we will also discuss a conjecture relating the
irreducible components of the variety of solutions and set-theoretical solutions to the
YB Equation.  The talk is based on a joint work with Ben Martin, and with Leandro
Vendramin and Istvan Heckenberger.