Prospectus

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Probability seminar (BM)

Course
2013-2014

Probability theory is a branch of mathematics that deals with random phenomena. It has a vast range of applications, linking it up with fields like computer science, physics, chemistry and biology. The probability seminar aims at exposing students to advanced probability theory and selected applications. One topic will be selected each year. The topic for the academic year 2013-2014 will be Large Deviation Theory. Large Deviation Theory deals with the description of \“rare events\”. A precise calculation of the probability of such events, and an analysis of why and how they arise, are central to our understanding of random phenomena. The seminar starts with developing the basic theory from scratch and then moves on to selected applications. The goal of the seminar is that students become familiar with studying and presenting modern probability theory: by listening to lectures, giving presentations themselves, and by writing a small report. The course material is based on a key monograph together with selected topical research papers. The first few introductory lectures will be given by den Hollander and Verbitskiy, all other lectures by the participants. Each participant will choose a topic from a list of topics presented at the beginning of the course, and will prepare two lectures of 30 minutes on the chosen topic.

Exam
Homeworks + final presentation