Number theory is one of the oldest and most active branches of mathematics, with intimate interactions with much of pure mathematics, including algebra, geometry, analysis and topology. Historically, open problems in number theory have inspired many developments in other Fields of pure mathematics. Over the last few decades, number theory has also become one of the most consequential areas of mathematics for its applications outside pure mathematics, particularly in information technology (e.g., data encryption and network security).

 

The Fields Institute hosted the first GANITA (Geometry, Algebra, Number theory, and its Information Technology Applications) conference in 2016. GANITA II will focus on new and exciting developments and the outlook of the future in the following areas:

- Algebraic and analytic number theory, including Iwasawa theory, analytic aspects of L-function and automorphic forms, Diophantine approximation, and transcendental number theory

- Arithmetic geometry, including algebraic cycles, motives, periods, algebro-geometric aspects of L-functions and automorphic forms

- Applications of number theory outside mathematics, particularly, in information technology

 

We will dedicate roughly one day to each of the above themes. The conference will be aimed at both junior and senior researchers in the field. The conference will include talks by leading mathematicians in these areas as well as some talks by early career mathematicians. We will also hold a career advice panel aimed at PhD students, postdocs, and other early career researchers. In addition, there will be a poster session for PhD students and recent PhD graduates to showcase their work.

 

The work of Kumar Murty has been inspirational in all research themes of the conference. The conference will be held around the time of Kumar Murty's 70th birthday and will honour his many contributions to mathematics and the mathematical community.