The workshop Vertex Operator Algebras in Mathematics and Physics will be devoted to a variety of topics, but one special theme will be relations between the theory of D-branes and the algebraic and geometric theory of vertex operator algebras. The theory of vertex operator algebras has been developing rapidly as a mathematical theory, and an increased level of understanding of the structures of conformal field theory has been achieved through extensive study of the geometry and representation theory of vertex operator algebras, the motivation being both mathematical and physical. Recent developments in string theory, in particular, the study of mirror symmetry via Gepner models and the world-sheet approach to D-branes, are expected to provide a rich source of problems for mathematicians, and these developments also suggest that the theory of vertex operator algebras might provide a mathematical foundation for a number of constructions in the theory of D-branes through the mathematical study of boundary conformal field theory. Since vertex operator algebra theory is formulated without classical geometry, it might also shed light on the problem of the meaning of space-time in string theory or M theory. It is hoped that the workshop will promote mutually beneficial interaction between mathematicians and physicists.

Invited Speakers

* These speakers are not yet confirmed.