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87971 - Advanced Quantum Field Theory

Academic Year 2026/2027

                
                        Docente:
                        Fiorenzo Bastianelli
                    
                        Credits:
                        6
                    
                        SSD:
                        PHYS-02/A
                    
                        Language:
                        English
                    
                        Teaching Mode:
                        In-person learning (entirely or partially)
                        
                            Campus:
                            Bologna
                        
                            Corso:
                            Second cycle degree programme (LM) in
                            Physics (cod. 6695)

                            Teaching resources on Virtuale
                        
                                    Course Timetable
                                
from Sep 18, 2026 to Dec 21, 2026

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will have acquired a deep knowledge of advanced tools in relativistic quantum field theory with applications to gauge theories of the fundamental interactions and quantum field theory in curved spacetime.

Course contents

Quantization of non-abelian gauge theories
Faddeev–Popov method and BRST symmetry
Renormalization of gauge theories
Batalin–Vilkovisky quantization method
Background field method
Heat kernel methods in gauge theories and quantum gravity
Euler–Heisenberg effective lagrangian
Worldline formalism
Chiral and trace anomalies
Solitons and instantons

Readings/Bibliography

Lecture notes, available on Virtuale.

Suggested books for further study:
M. Srednicki, "Quantum Field Theory" (CUP, 2007)

Teaching methods

Lectures delivered at the blackboard

Assessment methods

Oral Examination – Approximate duration: 30 minutes.

The oral examination normally consists of two general questions on the topics covered during the course (one question for each module). Students are expected to provide a thorough and critical discussion of the subject matter. The final grade will be based on the accuracy and clarity of the presentation, the ability to develop well-reasoned arguments and analyses, and the capacity to identify and explain the most conceptually significant aspects of the topics discussed.

Assessment Criteria

18–23/30: elementary knowledge of the course topics.
24–26/30: adequate knowledge of the course topics.
27–30/30: good knowledge and solid command of the course topics.
30/30 cum laude: excellent knowledge of the course topics, outstanding critical and analytical skills, full command of the disciplinary terminology, and a remarkable degree of independent thinking and elaboration.

Students with Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) or temporary/permanent disabilities are advised to contact the University Office responsible in a timely manner (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en ). The office will be responsible for proposing any necessary accommodations to the students concerned. These accommodations must be submitted to the instructor for approval at least 15 days in advance, and will be evaluated in light of the learning objectives of the course.

Office hours

See the website of Fiorenzo Bastianelli