Mathematics Inspired by Physics

Mathematics Inspired by Physics    A Conference in Honor of Yan Soibelman’s Contributions    June 1 & 2 2026    at IHES – Marilyn and James Simons Conference Center ; Léon Motchane Amphitheater   How to get to IHES
Registration is free but compulsory. 

Yan Soibelman, professor of mathematics at Kansas State University, has made influential contributions at the interface of geometry, algebra, and theoretical physics. His early work on quantum groups and braided categories helped shape modern interactions between representation theory and mathematical physics. His work is strongly inspired by ideas from quantum field theory and string theory, which he helps translate into rigorous mathematical frameworks.
In collaboration with Maxim Kontsevich, he has played a central role in the development of mirror symmetry, including various fundamental results in the theory of operads and A  ͚ categories. He also introduced key concepts such as motivic Donaldson–Thomas invariants, the Kontsevich–Soibelman wall-crossing formula, and cohomological Hall algebras. His work has had a lasting impact on areas where physics drives new mathematical insights.
 
The conference will celebrate Yan Soibelman’s contributions by bringing together experts to present recent advances & foster interaction across fields as well as engaging early-career researchers in these exciting developments.
Speakers:

Veronica Fantini, Laboratoire de Mathématique d’Orsay

Mikhail Kapranov, Kavli Institute

Bernhard Keller, Institut de mathématiques Jussieu-Paris Rive Gauche

Maxim Kontsevich, IHES

Pierre Schapira, Institut de mathématiques Jussieu-Paris Rive Gauche

Olivier Schiffmann, CNRS, Laboratoire de Mathématiques d’Orsay

Alexander Soibelman, IHES

Yan Soibelman, Kansas State University

Bruno Vallette, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord 

 
Organizing committee:     Mikhail Kapranov, Kavli Institute · Maxim Kontsevich, IHES