Djordje Minic
323 Robeson Hall
850 West Campus Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24061
Ph.D.: University of Texas at Austiin
My research is focused on the problem of a non-perturbative formulation of string theory, the only known perturbative theory of quantum gravity and Standard-Model-like matter. Recently, together with Laurent Freidel (Perimeter Institute) and Rob Leigh (Urbana), I have proposed a new formulation of quantum gravity, that we call metastring theory, which also represents a reformulation of string theory, and sheds new light on the foundations of quantum theory.
I am deeply interested in all conceptual, gravitational, cosmological and particle physics aspects of string theory and quantum gravity. In particular, I have been working on the vacuum energy problem, a new resolution of the dark matter problem, and the non-commutative geometry of the Standard Model of particle physics. String theory originated from efforts to understand the strong interactions, so I have also worked intensely on trying to understand the non-perturbative dynamics of gauge theories, such as quantum chromodynamics (QCD).
Furthermore, I am fascinated with the relationship between quantum field theory and condensed matter and statistical physics. In particular, I have applied theoretical methods from string theory and modern quantum field theory to the questions ranging from the spin dual of the Fractional Quantum Hall Effect, high-temperature superconductivity and topological insulators to the problems of turbulence and aging in non-equilibrium statistical physics as well as the physics of the Riemann zeros and the physics of complex adaptive systems.
As an extension of my work on the conceptual issues in string theory and quantum gravity I have been recently attracted to more foundational aspects of quantum theory in general.
Finally, I nurture a non-professional interest in the subject of history of physics. Some of my historical and other musings about physics can be found in my popular book ``In search of another miraculous year'' (published in Serbian, Belgrade, 2005).
Publications (INSPIRE Citation Search)