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Random Walks on Groups, Commutative and Non-commutative Dynamics

Project description

A closer look at the theory of random walks

In mathematics, a random walk is a process describing a path lined with a series of random steps. The EU-funded BoundaryTheory project will gain a deeper understanding of group properties using the theory of random walks. The project will also illuminate the connections between this theory and the rigidity phenomenon. The main mathematical fields in this research plan are measurable and topological group actions (ergodic theory and topological dynamics) and their interactions with C*-algebras and von Neumann algebras. The project will also build the theory of the automorphism group of Markov chains. It will create new techniques for studying the Furstenberg-Poisson boundary and its connections with operator algebras.

Objective

The general goal of the proposed research is to gain a deeper understanding of group properties which are reflected by the theory of random walks. Another goal is to reveal further connections between this theory with the rigidity phenomenon. The main mathematical fields appearing in this research plan are measurable and topological group actions (Ergodic Theory and Topological Dynamics), and group actions on C*-algebras.

One of the main objectives is developing a theory towards solving a specific case of Connes’ Rigidity Conjecture, formulated for C*-algebras. Namely, differentiating reduced C*-algebras of irreducible lattices of different ranks. The suggested approach is inspired by a well-known rigidity result of Furstenberg. This involves studying the relationship between measurable and topological boundaries, as well as their C*- and von Neumann algebraic counterparts. Related to this relationship, it is also conjectured that the existence of uniquely ergodic models for probability measure preserving actions in a much wider setup than is currently known.

Another goal is to develop a theory of automorphism groups of Markov chains. Two potential applications are discussed: the first is developing new techniques for realizing the Furstenberg-Poisson boundary, and the second, is to relate the boundaries of groups, which are measure equivalent.

An additional line of research suggests new systematic studies of operator algebras related to groups. This direction is inspired by the fruitful theme in Geometric Group Theory, studying the space of all subgroups, of a given group. The dynamics on the space of subalgebras is suggested to provide a new set of invariants attributed to groups, unitary representations, and group actions. A subalgebra rigidity phenomenon is conjectured to hold for higher rank groups, and a strategy based on Boundary Theory is being presented. This direction opens many new horizons to the study of groups’ operator algebras.

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Keywords

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Topic(s)

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Funding Scheme

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HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants

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Call for proposal

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(opens in new window) ERC-2022-STG

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Host institution

BEN-GURION UNIVERSITY OF THE NEGEV
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 1 499 750,00
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 1 499 750,00

Beneficiaries (1)

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