Princeton University Princeton Center for Theoretical Science (PCTS) Program - Day 1

This multi-faceted program will focus on modifications of Einstein gravity at high (but sub-Planckian) energy densities that would influence the dynamics and evolutionary history of the early universe. Of particular interest are a variety of recent proposals for avoiding the cosmological singularity by stably violating the null-energy condition while remaining in the regime of validity of classical field theories. Understanding these approaches requires the development of new ideas, new analytical tools, and new numerical techniques including novel adaptations of numerical general relativity to cosmology. Through a combination of monthly meetings and a focused workshop, the proposed program will bring together leading experts in cosmology and general relativity to explore these ideas. We will have only five speakers and each will be given two 1.5 hour slots, so that there is time for a more pedagogical presentation and lots of time for questions and interaction during and after. program is supported in part by the Simons Foundation as part of the Origins of the Universe Initiative. Program Organizers: Anna Ijjas (Columbia), Frans Pretorius (Princeton), Paul J. Steinhardt (Princeton-PCTS).