Chiral gauge theory at the boundary between topological phases

Abstract: Ever since Wilson invented lattice gauge theory 50 years ago, devising a lattice regularization for the Standard Model has been a a vexing and unsolved problem. The same tension between chiral symmetry and UV regularization that yields anomalies has prevented a nonperturbative regularization for chiral gauge theories.  Building on analogies with topological materials  a new approach was recently suggested which allows one to regulate Weyl fermions with exact chiral symmetry on the lattice. I discuss these advances and prospects for finally giving the Standard Model a nonperturbative definition.