OPERATOR ALGEBRAS

OPERATOR ALGEBRAS

The theory of operator algebras was initiated by Murray and von Neumann in the 1930´s as a tool for studying group representations and as a mathematical framework for quantum mechanics.

Since then the connections with quantum physics have grown in importance, and similarly for several branches of mathematics, e.g. the analysis of singular topological spaces, knot theory, group actions, dynamical systems and quantum groups.

The interests of the operator algebra team in Oslo concern the geometry of state spaces of operator algebras (Alfsen), projective regular representations of discrete groups and associated C*-algebras, spectra of self-adjoint operators associated to special C*-algebras (Bedos), application of the representation theory of certain special C*-algebras to wavelet theory (Bratteli), the theory of von Neumann algebras, non-commutative dynamical systems with special emphasis on entropy (Størmer), crossed products and simple C*-algebras (Bedos), the theory of inductive limits of special C*-algebras, application of operator algebras to quantum statistical mechanics, and Jordan algebras (Alfsen, Bedos, Bratteli, Størmer).

MATHEMATHICS DEPARTMENT

The Mathematics Department is located on the campus at Blindern, approximately ten minutes by metrotrain from the centre of Oslo. The department provides strongly research-oriented educational programs in pure and applied mathematics and in statistics.

The scientists at the department are active partners in the international community, thus ensuring a high international standard in its research activities. The department has nearly 100 employees, including 45 full-time professors. In addition 80 Master students and 20 doctoral students are connected to the department. The technical and administrative staff includes computer engineers, student advisors and employees involved in the implementation of research training.

The Mathematics department in Oslo has a long-standing and well-documented tradition for incorporating and supporting doctoral students within the departmental research community. The training site unites the advantages of having researchers of high international level and the access to several related in-depth research fields. This is of invaluable importance for students needing to acquire an optimal depth and breadth in their doctoral education.

The department offers focused and safe conditions for guest studies in a stimulating milieu, with a young and friendly administrative staff that works very hard to fulfil the goals of the department in research-oriented education, internationally based research in mathematical fields and to bring mathematical culture out to a general audience.