![Courtney Gibbons](https://s3.amazonaws.com/mediacdn.hamilton.edu/images/3:4/300/161130hmlcourtney006web1600jpg.jpg)
Associate Professor of Mathematics Courtney Gibbons gave a talk titled "Syzygy: When Submodules Align" at the commutative algebra invited paper session at MathFest 2019 that took place in Cincinnati from July 31 to Aug. 3.
The term "syzygy" is borrowed from astronomy, where it refers to the alignment of celestial bodies. In homological commutative algebra, a syzygy is a module that is simultaneously the kernel and image of successive differentials in a minimal free resolution.
In the talk, Gibbons described some of her recent projects, including joint work with with Robert Huben '15 and visiting professor Branden Stone. MathFest is an annual, national conference for mathematicians sponsored by the Mathematical Association of America.