School of Arts & Sciences Prospectus Instructions

Course ID and 6-digit Number: PHYS 696-001

Instructor: Mirjam Cvetic

DRL 4N14, email:cvetic@physics.upenn.edu

Title: Advanced Topics in Theoretical Physics

Description: Advanced graduate physics course in theoretical physics, focusing on

advanced topics in quantum field theory, supersymmetry and string theory. Specific
topics covered:
• Non-perturbative techniques in quantum field theory: instantons
• Classical and quantum aspects of supersymmetric theories
• Introduction to string theory: quantization of closed and open superstring theory in
the presence of D-branes

Class Structure:
• Synchronous sessions via Zoom, planned for TR: 10:30 AM - 12 PM
Due to the size of the class, it is expected that assigned times for lectures will be
adequate for all the students attending the class. Otherwise, the time for sessions could
be adjusted. If needed, the lectures would be recorded and posted on Canvas.

• Office hours will be held via Zoom: TR: 12 PM - 1 PM or by appointment

Assignments & Assessments:

• There would be four homework assignments during the course. The specific
problems in the homework assignments will complement the topics covered in
the lectures. (50 % of the grade)
● Each student would also be assigned a topic to research and to present it as a
seminar assignment. (50 % of the grade)
● Supporting Material:
S. Coleman: Advanced Topics in Quantum Field Theory
J. Wess and J. Bagger: Supersymmetry
J. Polchinski: String Theory (volume I and II)
Additional handout material