The Bardeen, Cooper and Schrieffer (BCS) theory of superconductivity, combined with key developments over the ensuing decades, is one of the most successful theoretical achievements of 20th century physics. The basic feature of BCS theory - spontaneous symmetry breaking via condensation of bound pairs of fermions - has impacted research from nuclear structure, our understanding of neutron star interiors and pulsars, spontaneous symmetry breaking and the mass spectrum in particle physics, to the physics of ultra-cold quantum fluids and gases. I highlight key features of the BCS theory and its extensions, describe some of the remarkable phenomena it describes, with a focus on the connection between spontaneous symmetry breaking and topology in understanding the low-energy spectrum of a broad class of unconventional superconductors.

Argonne Physics Division Colloquium Schedule