Talks and shows

How to untie the quantum string

Davide De Bassio uncovers string theory's quest to unify quantum field theory and general relativity and its vision for future physics.

Event image via Pixabay

20th-century theoretical physics achieved extraordinary results. From quantum field theory providing a framework for elementary particle interactions, to general relativity modelling space-time, these theories should be able to capture all the physical phenomena we observe in laboratories. But this is not the case. Join physicist Davide de Biasio to discover how, when combined, these theories are not only contradictory but incompatible. Of all the possible solutions proposed by physicists to unify these theories, the most viable so far is string theory, which assumes that everything emerges from the vibrations of microscopic, one-dimensional objects. Starting from its origin and progressing to the exciting developments of the last decades, Davide will explore the features and success, problems and ambitions of one of the most bizarre ideas in the history of science. 

Event type

This is a theatre only event where the speakers and audience are together in our Theatre.

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For any queries regarding this event please get in touch by phone 020 7409 2992 or email events@ri.ac.uk.

About Davide De Biasio

Image of Davide De Biasio
Davide De Biasio

Davide De Biasio received his PhD in theoretical physics from the Max Planck Institute for Physics, where he studied black holes, string theory and the enigmas of quantum space-time. Today, he devotes himself to science communication - both in English and Italian. He writes and performs science-themed monologues, bringing them to theatres, schools and research institutes, and runs the YouTube popularisation project 'Spazi Attorcigliati'. He’s part of the outreach team of the International Society for Quantum Gravity and co-produced, with Roberto Mercadini, the Audible podcast 'Il giro della fisica in 12 mondi'.

Timing

Doors to the theatre will open at 6.45pm and the talk will begin at 7.00pm.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Covid guidelines

Face masks are no longer mandatory and wearing one in our Theatre and at other Ri events is at your discretion, however please do not attend the Ri if you are displaying Covid symptoms or, if you have tested, the result remains positive. Thank you for respecting other people and their choices, and for helping us keep all of our visitors and staff safe and well.

Event terms and conditions