A First Course on Twistors, Integrability and Gluon Scattering Amplitudes

TL;DR

This paper provides an introductory overview of twistor theory and its application to supersymmetric gauge theories and gluon scattering amplitudes, tailored for early-stage PhD students with basic physics background.

Contribution

It introduces the twistor approach to gauge theories and gluon scattering, making advanced concepts accessible to newcomers without prior twistor theory knowledge.

Findings

Simplifies the understanding of twistor methods in gauge theories

Connects twistor geometry with gluon scattering amplitudes

Provides foundational knowledge for further research in the field

Abstract

These notes accompany an introductory lecture course on the twistor approach to supersymmetric gauge theories aimed at early-stage PhD students. It was held by the author at the University of Cambridge during the Michaelmas term in 2009. The lectures assume a working knowledge of differential geometry and quantum field theory. No prior knowledge of twistor theory is required.