Historically, string theory is a branch of theoretical physics which addresses conceptual problems of high energy (particle) physics. In particular, it is an attempt to build a consistent theory of quantum gravity and a candidate theory for the unification of all known physical interactions. Formal string theory employs very advanced mathematical tools. Its developments has often generated a great return impact on various areas of mathematics. It is currently viewed as a bridge connecting modern physics and mathematics. One of the breakthrough achievements of string theory is a realization of the holographic principle - a duality between gauge theories and theories of gravity that in particular links the study of conformal fields theories with the study of quantum gravity.

String theory methods and related mathematical and quantum field theory tools can be efficiently used in approaching physics beyond perturbation theory, for example, in the regime of strong coupling. Methods of holography, integrability, conformal bootstrap and topology make it possible to tackle non-perturbative problems in hadron/nuclear physics, condensed matter or quantum information theories. More generally, string theory, as an active field of development of new mathematical tools, is expected to produce new insights and technologies to the solution of complex problems in physics.

Research directions at the IIP

AdS/CFT Correspondence and Holography
Topological Quantum Field Theory (TQFT) and Knots
Wilson Loops
Quantum Entanglement in QFT, TQFT and Quantum Gravity

Visits

Sergey Ketov (Tokyo Metropolitan University), January 6 - February 27, 2026
Marco Bianchi (University of San Sebastian), September 29 - October 10, 2025
Anayeli Ramirez (KU Leuven), July 12 - August 2, 2025
Andre Lima (Federal University of Pernambuco), May 7-9, 2025
Niall Machpherson (University of Oviedo), May 2 - June 2, 2025
Aleksandr Pinzul (University of Brasilia), April 23 - 25, 2025

Visits

Recent Papers