Dr. Jarek Kwapisz (Dept. of Mathematical Sciences, MSU)

09/08/2025 4:10 pm

Abstract: 

A recent Ayala-Francis-Howard-theorem identifies (in a suitable infinity-categoric sense) framed diffeomorphisms of the torus with braids of three strands. I will flesh out this connection using geometric methods -- including hyperbolic geometry and the Weierstrass elliptic function (aka "pillowcase uniformization"). I will strive to be elementary and cater to the basic curiosity: How to draw a braid, most gracefully?