CBMS Regional Conference in the Mathematical Sciences - "Families of Riemann surfaces and Weil-Petersson Geometry'' - Summer 2009; New Britain, CT

Central Connecticut State University, New Britain CT

Investigators

Abstract

Project Abstract Families of Riemann surfaces and Weil-Petersson Geometry The investigation of the geometry and deformation theory of Riemann surfaces is long recognized for involving a wide range of concepts and a wide range of techniques. The Weil-Petersson geometry is recognized for providing important information on the geometry of both the Teichmuller space and the moduli space of Riemann surfaces. In less than a decade there have been a collection of breakthrough works on Weil-Petersson geometry. The works are based on a range of approaches and so involve matters of interest and further study for a broad audience. This conference will expose new students and beginning researchers to a variety of standardized techniques in the field. A number of very recent breakthroughs will be introduced, and open research questions will be discussed. This will drive further research over the next decade and beyond. In addition, by having this conference at Central Connecticut State University, a very diverse group of undergraduate and MasterÕs level students will be exposed to research level mathematics, which will encourage them to continue their studies. Many of our students are the first generation in their families to get this far in their studies, and are members of underrepresented groups, who are unfortunately rarely exposed to opportunities such as this.