Physics

GENERAL OBJECTIVES: This course will introduce the student to the most important concepts, ideas and tools of quantum field theory which has become the universal framework to describe all fundamental forces in nature. The student will understand how to construct field theories, quantize them in the presence of interactions and how to apply advanced techniques of regularization and renormalisation. The course will include the mathematical structure of non-Abelian gauge theories and their role in our present understanding of fundamental forces of Nature. SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: A - Knowledge and understanding The goal is for students to develop a critical understanding of the topics covered during the course, both as regards the purely theoretical aspects and in relation to the applications to different physical phenomena, and that they develop an adequate knowledge of the methods applied in theoretical physics, with particular reference to the methods usually used to conduct research in this sector. B - Application skills Alongside understanding the topics and methods used during the lessons, one of the objectives of the course is to enable students to apply those same methods to new problems, be they study or research. C - Autonomy of judgment One of the main objectives of the course is for students to develop critical skills with respect to the topics covered. They are often encouraged to follow other paths (than those followed during the lectures) for the achievement of results, or to propose interpretations or readings different from those presented by the teacher of the same results. Often during the lessons students are asked to make suggestions or make estimates in relation to specific calculations, with the aim of encouraging their autonomy of thought and their ability to make choices when confronted with delicate steps. D - Communication skills The course aims to increase students' communication skills, providing them with methodological tools that allow them to improve their ability to discuss in an original way topics related to theoretical and applicative aspects of quantum field theory. E - Ability to learn One of the most important objectives of the course is to provide students with a methodology that allows them to have access to a continuous updating of knowledge, trying in particular to increase their ability to deal with specialized literature.