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402-0897-00L 6 Credits DR , MSC D-PHYS , D-MATH

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Introduction to String Theory

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Johannes Brödel

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:21

Abstract

String theory is an attempt to quantise gravity and unite it with the other fundamental forces of nature. It is related to numerous interesting topics and questions in quantum field theory. In this course, an introduction to the basics of string theory is provided.

Objective

Within this course, a basic understanding and overview of the concepts and notions employed in string theory shall be given. More advanced topics will be touched upon towards the end of the course briefly in order to foster further research.

Content

- mechanics of point particles and extended objects - string modes and their quantisation; higher dimensions, supersymmetry - D-branes, T-duality - supergravity as a low-energy effective theory, strings on curved backgrounds - two-dimensional field theories (classical/quantum, conformal/non-conformal)

Resources

Literature

D. Lust, S. Theisen, Lectures on String Theory, Lecture Notes in Physics, Springer (1989). M.B. Green, J.H. Schwarz, E. Witten, Superstring Theory I, CUP (1987). B. Zwiebach, A First Course in String Theory, CUP (2004). J. Polchinski, String Theory I & II, CUP (1998).

Learning Materials (Links)

Moodle course
Moodle-Kurs / Moodle course

General Information

Language: English
Levels: DR , MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 20 minutes

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Introduction to String Theory	Tue 09:45-11:30 (HPV G 5)	2 h weekly
exercise	Introduction to String Theory	Wed 09:45-10:30 (HCI J 4) Wed 09:45-10:30 (HCI J 4) Wed 09:45-10:30 (HCP E 47.2) Wed 09:45-10:30 (HPL D 32)	1 h weekly

Offered In

Mathematics Master
- Electives (For the Master's degree in Applied Mathematics the following additional condition (not manifest in myStudies) must be obeyed: At least 15 of the required 28 credits from core courses and electives must be acquired in areas of applied mathematics and further application-oriented fields.)
  - Electives: Applied Mathematics and Further Application-Oriented Fields (¬)
    - Selection: Mathematical Physics, Theoretical Physics
Physics Master
- Electives
  - Electives: Physics and Mathematics
    - Selection: Theoretical Physics
High-Energy Physics (Joint Master with IP Paris)
- Electives
  - Optional Subjects in Physics
Doctoral Department of Mathematics (More Information at: The list of courses (together with the allocated credit points) eligible for doctoral students is published each semester in the newsletter of the ZGSM. WARNING: Do not mistake ECTS credits for credit points for doctoral studies!)
- Graduate School (Official website of the Zurich Graduate School in Mathematics:)
Doctoral Department of Physics (More Information at: )
- Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Courses (Please note that this is an INCOMPLETE list of courses.)