Paolo Salvatore

Abstract:   The configuration space of distinct points in a manifold is a basic object in topology and physics. Many topological invariants of this space depend only on the corresponding invariants of the manifold. We will recall some of these results. They motivated the long-standing conjecture that also the homotopy type of the configuration space of a compact manifold depends only on the homotopy type of the manifold. We will present a joint counterexample with R. Longoni to the conjecture using lens spaces.

Here are some directions to Northeastern University. Lake Hall and Nightingale Hall can be best accessed from the entrance on the corner of Greenleaf Street and Leon Street. The two halls are connected, with no well-defined boundary in between. In particular, 509 Lake Hall is on the same corridor as 544 Nightingale Hall.

There is free parking available for people coming to the Colloquium at Northeastern's visitor parking (Rennaisance Garage). The entrance is from Columbus Avenue. If coming by car, you should park there and take the parking talon. After the lecture, you may pick up the payment coupon from Maxim Braverman.