Joint topology/operator algebras seminar 141022

Topological groupoids serve as models for C*-algebras and build a bridge between topological dynamics and C*-algebra theory. The construction of topological full groups associated with groupoids gives rise to new examples of groups with very interesting properties, solving outstanding open problems in group theory. This talk is about a new connection between groupoids and topological full groups on the one hand and algebraic K-theory spectra and infinite loop spaces on the other hand. Several applications will be discussed. Parts of this connection already feature in the work of Szymik and Wahl on the homology of Higman-Thompson groups.