RTG: Dynamics: Classical, Modern and Quantum

The proposal aims to increase the strength of research in the field of dynamics, both at Northwestern and across the US, and to address the severely constricted pipeline of talented students entering dynamics. The larger goal is to increase the number of US citizens well-prepared to carry out research in the mathematical sciences, with a focus on increasing the numbers from historically underrepresented groups. The proposed Research Training Group will carry out research in the field of dynamics, a vibrant field, originating with the work of Poincare in celestial mechanics, that aims to describe the time-evolution of mechanical systems and of abstract models of such systems. The specialties of the participating faculty cover a wide range of dynamical fields, and interact with numerous other areas of mathematics including number theory, combinatorics, partial differential equations, quantum mechanics, group theory, and representation theory. The broader impacts of the proposed activities are to increase participation of US citizens and permanent residents in dynamics research and education at every level. Summer thematic schools, research workshops, and research experiences for undergraduates will enhance training across the US, and revisions and expansions of the curriculum and activities for Northwestern undergraduates will benefit all local undergraduates. We place a strong emphasis on enhancing participation of underrepresented groups, resulting in a stronger, more diverse scientific workforce, and we include vertically integrated mentoring in all programs. Improved training in dynamics will lead to greater US competitiveness in this internationally visible field, and public lectures will lead to broader dissemination of the goals and successes of dynamics research.