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401-3950-76L 4 Credits BSC , MSC D-MATH

Student Seminar on Mathematics of Data Science: Curvature for Graphs and Markov Chains

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Afonso Sousa Bandeira
Number of participants limited to 12.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-07-21 00:37:07

Abstract

Curvature is a fundamental notion in geometry that describes how distances between points behave locally. In this seminar, we will discuss notions of curvature that have been proposed for discrete structures such as graphs and Markov chains. We will explore applications of these notions in probability theory, theoretical computer science, and machine learning.

Objective

The seminar aims to introduce students to the rapidly developing field of curvature for graphs and Markov chains. Students will study recent research papers and develop their presentation skills by explaining mathematical ideas to their peers.

Content

Curvature is a fundamental notion in geometry that describes how distances between points behave locally. In this seminar, we will discuss notions of curvature that have been proposed for discrete structures such as graphs and Markov chains. We will explore applications of these notions in probability theory, theoretical computer science, and machine learning. Tentative topics include connections to graph partitioning and spectral clustering; concentration, mixing-time bounds, and the cutoff phenomenon for Markov chains; and long-range dependencies in graph neural networks.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Registration & Places

Limited places (Special selection)
Signup End
30.08.2026

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar Student Seminar on Mathematics of Data Science: Curvature for Graphs and Markov Chains
Number of participants limited to 12. Advisor: Lucas Pesenti
No time listed 2 h weekly

Offered In

      • Seminars (Seminar placement is determined by waiting lists and is not on a first-come, first-served basis. You can add yourself directly to the waiting list for your preferred seminar via myStudies.. We recommend that you specify a second and third priority using the placeholder course “Generic Seminar – Second Priority / Third Priority.” Please register for your desired waiting list(s) by Sunday, August 2, 2026, if possible, as the selection process begins shortly thereafter.)
      • Seminars (Seminar placement is determined by waiting lists and is not on a first-come, first-served basis. You can add yourself directly to the waiting list for your preferred seminar via myStudies.. We recommend that you specify a second and third priority using the placeholder course “Generic Seminar – Second Priority / Third Priority.” Please register for your desired waiting list(s) by Sunday, August 2, 2026, if possible, as the selection process begins shortly thereafter.)