Title: Random matrix theory: Hollywood's hippest mathematics

 

Abstract: With applications to prime numbers and in physics and beyond, random matrices pop up in many unlikely contexts.  A random matrix has an associated set of points (eigenvalues) that tend to repel each other, that is, they don't like to be too close together, and yet don't leave enormous gaps either.  The same phenomenon is found in many naturally occurring systems, such as positions of birds' nests or origins where replication commences on chromosomes, and in some contexts random matrix theory can model the space between these points.  I will tell some stories about the research that has grown out of these connections.

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Although this event is free to attend we ask that you please book your place via the Eventbrite page here to allow us to monitor numbers.

Please note, the lecture will begin at 4pm, however we invite attendees to join us in Fry Atrium from 3.15pm for refreshments.