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401-3200-69L 4 Credits BSC , MSC D-MATH

A Survey of Geometric Group Theory

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Matthew Cordes
Number of participants limited to 24.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:41:20

Abstract

In this class we will cover some of the tools, techniques, and groups central to the study of geometric group theory. After introducing the basic concepts (groups and metric spaces), we will branch out and sample different topics in geometric group theory based on the interest of the participants.

Objective

To learn and understand a wide range of tools and groups central to the field of geometric group theory.

Content

Possible topics include: properties of free groups and groups acting on trees, large scale geometric invariants (Dehn functions, hyperbolicity, ends of groups, asymptotic dimension, growth of groups), and examples of notable and interesting groups (Coxeter groups, right-angled Artin groups, lamplighter groups, Thompson's group, mapping class groups, and braid groups).

Resources

Literature

The topics will be chosen from "Office Hours with a Geometric Group Theorist" edited by Matt Clay and Dan Margalit.

Learning Materials (Links)

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Registration & Places

Limited places (Special selection)
Signup Start
06.01.2020
Signup End
12.02.2020
Priority: Registration for the course unit is only possible for the primary target group

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar A Survey of Geometric Group Theory
  • Thu 15:15-17:00 (HG E 33.5)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Mathematics Bachelor
    • Seminars (This semester, many seminars have a waiting list with special selection procedure. If no other criteria apply, a definitive registration will be granted first of all to students who haven't got another seminar registration. Here is the best procedure for dealing with two waiting lists: first choose your preferred seminar and afterwards choose an alternative seminar.)
  • Mathematics Master
    • Seminars and Semester Papers
      • Seminars (This semester, many seminars have a waiting list with special selection procedure. If no other criteria apply, a definitive registration will be granted first of all to students who haven't got another seminar registration. Here is the best procedure for dealing with two waiting lists: first choose your preferred seminar and afterwards choose an alternative seminar.)