CUHK Research: Changing the world

a form of symmetry arises in quantum mechanics, is a way to understand how quant um mechan i ca l ob j ect s can be self-similar,” says Professor McBreen. “It is particularly useful in understanding fundamental physics, especially high-energy physics. It is also a key part of condensed- matter physics, which studies the structure of materials such as metals, alloys and foams.” Quantum symmetry has intimate connections with other topics such as pure algebra and number theory. Adding to the list of Professor McBreen’s research is the study of dualities. “The many dualities in physics often give people new ways of looking at familiar things. A lot of my research is about physical objects called supersymmetric gauge theory, understanding what various dualities can tell us about the fundamental structure of quantum symmetry – what this symmetry means and what possibilities are out there,” he says. The supersymmetric gauge theory describes force fields, such as gravity, that can give rise to integrable systems. CUHK provides a supportive environment for quality research. Professor McBreen believes that pure mathematicians start from an internal mathematical intuition. “It has already been realised that quantum symmetries and integrable systems are vital in the study of condensed matter physics and advanced materials, such as designing advanced ceramics or advanced topologically stable materials. My research started out as a pure intuition. I believe if the intuition is good, it will often – at a later stage – be revealed that it carries extensive applications.” Professor McBreen uses tools from high energy physics, combining them with classical mathematics to push the knowledge of quantum symmetry further. “I hope to come up with a complete description of the structure of these symmetries,” he notes. The grand challenge of my research is to understand how symmetries behave in a world governed by quantummechanics. 79