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Extremal Combinatorics: existence, counting and typical structure

Objective

"A central theme of extremal combinatorics is the interplay and relationship between the parameters of combinatorial objects. The first and most immediate question which arises in this context is that of the (i) existence of objects with a given set of parameters. Once this has been answered, the next step is to seek for (ii) the number of such objects - i.e. to ask for a counting result. This is of central importance in the context of many combinatorial questions arising in statistical physics. A very effective approach here is to seek asymptotic results - rather than exact formulas. This asymptotic approach sometimes makes it possible to go even further and ultimately uncover the (iii) typical structure of the objects in such a given class.

In this project, we will consider the above perspective with a focus on inter-related topics involving combinatorial designs, decompositions, Latin squares as well as matchings in graphs and hypergraphs. The project themes have close connections e.g. to statistical physics, probability, algebra and theoretical computer science.

A common feature of the structures considered in this proposal is that the constraints describing them are of a ""global nature"". This makes their study extremely challenging. However, recently initiated methods have opened up completely new avenues, bringing questions within reach that were considered inaccessible until now. (In fact, one of the objectives involves the study of algebraic structures which had been conjectured not even to exist.)

The aim of the project is the development of general tools and approaches which make the asymptotic study of such structures far more accessible. These tools will be mostly of a probabilistic nature. Indeed, the probabilistic perspective has already been the driving force behind recent advances which underpin the proposal. But it seems that overall, this development is still in its early stages - a situation we aim to address in the current project."

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)

Programme(s)

Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.

Topic(s)

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.

ERC-ADG - Advanced Grant

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) ERC-2017-ADG

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Host institution

THE UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM
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.

€ 1 797 111,00
Address
Edgbaston
B15 2TT Birmingham
United Kingdom

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Region
West Midlands (England) West Midlands Birmingham
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
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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.

€ 1 797 111,21

Beneficiaries (1)

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