Objective
For decades, the theory of local observables has been central to every field of physics. This is largely due to the prominent role of local operators in our most sophisticated description of nature: quantum field theory. Yet all quantum and statistical systems also feature defects and extended excitations, corresponding to extended operators in quantum field theory, whose physics is far less explored yet promises new insights into the structure of matter and fundamental interactions.
The goal of this proposal is to explore how nonlocal observables—which are extended in space and/or time—can be used to expand our understanding of strongly interacting quantum systems. This will be pursued along three interconnected frontiers. The first two work packages focus on defects in gapless systems, with two aims: charting the space of nontrivial impurities in quantum matter, with pioneering applications to deconfined criticality and quantum spin liquids, and developing a systematic framework for real-time defect dynamics. The goals will be pursued by building on recent progress in the renormalization group description of defects and exploring new directions, such as the implications of causality for their dynamics.
The third work package will exploit nonlocal observables to probe the dual string description that emerges in confining gauge theories with a large number of colors, providing a new analytical handle on the theory of the strong interactions. Defects will play a central role in interpreting recent lattice results on glueballs and open flux tubes, while techniques developed in the first two work packages will be used to search for signatures of asymptotic freedom imprinted on the string worldsheet—a potentially groundbreaking program.
Overall, by leveraging the power of extended operators, this proposal will profoundly impact diverse areas of physics, from condensed matter systems to the theory of strong interactions.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2026-STG
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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.
34136 Trieste
Italy
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.