Scope of the conference

The objective of the International conference on topological quantum phenomena (TQP2012) held in Nagoya is to bring together scientists investigating topological quantum phenomena in condensed matter physics. In the interdisciplinary atmosphere, we seek to pursue universal concepts and phenomena relevant to topological quantum phenomena.

Topology is a concept and method enabling the classification of shape by continuous deformation. We are interested in quantum phenomena, where the shape subject to continuous deformation is based on the symmetries and phases of the quantum mechanical wave functions. Until recently, well known examples of quantum phenomena characterized by topology are quantization of vortices in superconductors and superfluids, Aharonov-Bohm effect of interference of electron wave functions, quantum Hall effect, and fractional quantum Hall effects.

Stimulated by the recent discovery of topological insulators, a variety of quantum phenomena for which underlying topology plays fundamental roles are recognized as constituents of an important major frontier in modern condensed matter physics. The aim of this conference is to provide an opportunity for pursuing and deepening the physics of topological quantum phenomena over a vast variety of material systems.

The topics covered in this conference are as follows: