Computing Z_top

TL;DR

This thesis explores computational techniques for the topological string partition function Z_top, highlighting its role in understanding non-perturbative aspects of string theory through various theoretical perspectives.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive summary of methods to compute Z_top from different viewpoints, advancing the understanding of topological string theory.

Findings

Development of new computational techniques for Z_top

Insights into open-closed duality in topological strings

Enhanced understanding of non-perturbative string phenomena

Abstract

This is the text of my habilitation thesis defended at the \'Ecole Normale Sup\'erieure. The topological string presents an arena in which many features of string theory proper, such as the interplay between worldsheet and target space descriptions or open-closed duality, can be distilled into computational techniques which yield results beyond perturbation theory. In this thesis, I will summarize my research activity in this area. The presentation is organized around computations of the topological string partition function Z_top based on various perspectives on the topological string.