Course description
Vector bundles can be thought of as vector spaces parametrized by a base space, where “space” can mean a topological space, an algebraic variety, or a manifold. They occurence is abundant in topology, geometry, and algebra. Characteristic classes are cohomological invariants of vector bundles and the most important and powerful tools to study them.
This course is a PhD level course on characteristic classes in topology, algebra, and geometry, including an introduction to vector bundles, cohomology, and differential geometry.
Course goals
The course goal is to understand and be able to apply the concept of characteristic classes in a range of mathematical disciplines. At the end of the course, the student will be able to follow current research literature and, if desired, pursue own research projects in this area.
