Perfectly matched perspectives on statistical mechanics, combinatorics and geometry
A conference in honor of Richard Kenyon
Where and when
CIRM, Luminy, France, 16-20 June 2025
Summary
The dimer model is one of the fundamental models in two-dimensional statistical mechanics. Used for example as model for ferromagnetism or crystal melting, and having a formulation in terms of random tilings, it is exactly solvable in a strong sense. Its correlations can be expressed in terms of determinantal point processes: it is thus a model of lattice free fermions. Many instances have a conformally invariant scaling limit, described by the Gaussian free field.
In the recent years, additional structures have been discovered, unveiling deep connections with combinatorics, algebraic geometry, integrable systems, and discrete differential geometry. The richness of these structures and the interplay of various branches of mathematics make the dimer model special and particularly attractive. It is the object of study of a growing number of researchers from various fields: physicists, mathematicians and computer scientists.
The goal of the conference is to bring together specialists of various aspects of the dimer model, from statistical mechanics and combinatorics to algebra and geometry, but also younger participants who want to learn more about the field, showcasing the latest results and providing a unique forum for future collaborations and scientific discoveries.
It will be also a perfect opportunity to celebrate the numerous deep and fundamental contributions of Richard Kenyon to the field.
Organizing Committee
- Cédric Boutillier
- Sunil Chhita
- Béatrice de Tilière
- Terrence George
- Zhongyang Li
contact: rick61@listes.lpsm.paris
