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I am an old (41-Years-old) physics graduate. I pretty much quit to "frequent physics" 10 years ago and my ability to manage physics is a bit rusty. I was fascinated with Quantum Gravity (QG) theory and especially with the Causal Dynamical Triangulation (CDT) model developed by Loll and Ambjørn and the related approach to quantum gravity that like Loop Quantum Gravity (LQG) is background independent.

http://arxiv.org/abs/hep-th/0509010

http://arxiv.org/abs/1105.5582

I was wondering what would be the minimum mathematical/Physical background required to study this theory given that as graduate I learnt the following arguments on modern physics

  • Nuclear physics

  • Quantum Mechanics

  • Special Relativity and Electrodynamics

  • Introduction to the Structure of Matter

I know this is a quite naive question but it is never too late to learn, it says.

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    $\begingroup$ I would expect quantum field theory would be a requirement. $\endgroup$
    – anna v
    Commented Jun 18, 2016 at 18:32
  • $\begingroup$ Also, you might want to brush up some good functional analysis (Loop Quantum Gravity makes use of non-separable Hilbert spaces). $\endgroup$
    – gented
    Commented Jul 25, 2016 at 14:13

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A routine internet search for introductory material comes up with several possibilities.

If you merely wish to read about the ideas in these topics you may not need any mathematics at all. eg "String Theory and Quantum Gravity for Dummies" in the "Dummies" Series. Also the more academic but briefer introduction "Quantum Gravity for Dummies" (http://arxiv.org/abs/1402.2757)

There are introductory texts aimed at physics graduates, such as "A First Course in Loop Quantum Gravity" by Rodolpho Gambini & Jorge Pullin. This one is quite light on the math, and is available from Amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/First-Course-Loop-Quantum-Gravity/dp/0199590753).

If you need understand the mathematics, consult a postgraduate text in Mathematical Physics. "A Course in Modern Mathematical Physics" by Peter Szekeres has good reviews.

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  • $\begingroup$ Hi! Well.. your link says "item non-available". Could you please update the link? $\endgroup$
    – Physicist137
    Commented Jul 24, 2016 at 20:16
  • $\begingroup$ @Physicist137 : Sorry. Possibly an illegal version anyway, so I've removed the link altogether. $\endgroup$
    – sammy gerbil
    Commented Jul 25, 2016 at 13:47
  • $\begingroup$ Hello people...I am in my undergraduate study at this moment but I wanna train myself in the physics needed to do work in quantum gravity. I am presently doing general relativity and haven't touched quantum field theory yet. With just the knowledge I have, what is the area in GR i can work in at present that is closest to quantum gravity research?(Asking so because I have to apply for specific topics in internships and stuff ). $\endgroup$
    – quirkyquark
    Commented Dec 29, 2017 at 14:15
  • $\begingroup$ @NamanAgarwal It is probably best to speak with researchers or lecturers in your current university. Your GR lecturer might have some ideas. It will also be wise to discuss your plans with your academic tutor. $\endgroup$
    – sammy gerbil
    Commented Dec 29, 2017 at 17:44
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If you really want to learn Quantum Gravity it is never too late to introduce yourself to General Relativity as well as Quantum Field Theory. First one is crucial for understanding Quantum Gravity because it is based on both QM and GR.

So for more advanced studying I recommend this book http://www.cpt.univ-mrs.fr/~rovelli/book.pdf

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