Tom LaGatta presents a basic introduction to category theory, namely, some of the basic definitions and concepts.  More importantly, emphasizing the role of abstract, categorical thinking in both research and application. Just about anything you care about can be faithfully represented using categories-- even the concept of "representation" itself.  Understand how to use categories in your own work, no background is necessary for the talk, questions and comments throughout are welcome.

Tom LaGattaLa has a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Arizona, and until recently was a postdoc at the Courant Institute at NYU. Tom is currently transitioning to a career in the tech sector.