Tue, 20 Jan 2026
13:00
L2

How to get an interacting conformal line defect for free theories

Christopher Herzog
(KCL )
Abstract
We argue that interacting conformal line defects in free quantum field theories can exist, provided that correlation functions are not invariant under inversion symmetry.  Important for our demonstration is the existence of a special cross ratio for bulk-defect-defect three point functions that is invariant under the conformal group but picks up a sign under inversion. We examine the particular case of a free scalar field in detail, and we provide a toy model example where this bulk field interacts via a Yukawa term with fermions on the line.  We expect nontrivial line defects may also exist for free Maxwell theory in four dimensions and free bulk fermions.  Based on 2510.02871.


 

The London Mathematical Society runs a range of talks and conferences for all levels, both online and in-person.

Full calendar

Michael I. Jordan (Inria Paris and the University of California, Berkeley) - A Collectivist, Economic Perspective on AI 

29 January, 3.30-4.30 pm, Large Lecture Theatre, Department of Statistics

Register

Canada/USA Mathcamp is looking for math graduate students as leaders for its summer 2026 session. 

When: June 23rd, 2026 to August 7th, 2026

Where: Champlain College, Burlington, Vermont

Compensation: $6,600 plus room, board, travel, and other work-related expenses

Application Deadline: February 11th, 2026

A likelihood-based Bayesian inference framework for the calibration of and selection between stochastic velocity-jump models
Ceccarelli, A Browning, A Chaiamarit, T Davis, I Baker, R Journal of the Royal Society Interface
A multilevel hierarchical framework for quantification of experimental heterogeneity
Warne, D Zhu, X Steele, T Johnston, S Sisson, S Faria, M Murphy, R Browning, A
The Ellis-Baldwin test.
Secrest, N Philosophical transactions. Series A, Mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences volume 383 issue 2290 20240027 (13 Feb 2025)
Anisotropy in the cosmic acceleration inferred from supernovae.
Rameez, M Philosophical transactions. Series A, Mathematical, physical, and engineering sciences volume 383 issue 2290 20240032 (13 Feb 2025)
Classification of finite depth objects in bicommutant categories via anchored planar algebras
Henriques, A Penneys, D Tener, J Communications in Mathematical Physics
Thu, 28 May 2026

16:00 - 17:00
L5

The Viability of Blockchain Markets under Discrete Clearing and Paid Priority

Fayçal Drissi
Abstract

This paper develops a model to evaluate the viability of blockchain markets as the sole venue for price formation. Blockchains clear at discrete intervals called block time, and transactions are executed sequentially according to priority fees paid by traders who compete for queue position.  We show that these features undermine the viability of markets. Paid-priority ordering induces endogenous selection, where only traders with sufficiently high valuations participate. The participation cutoff rises with competition, which intensifies with lower information costs or higher liquidity demand. This hinders price discovery and biases prices. It also impairs liquidity: the cutoff concentrates trading among aggressive traders and increases adverse selection that liquidity suppliers absorb in a single clearing round. Although longer block times enhance consensus security, they amplify these effects and can cause markets to shut down.

 


 

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