Foundational and structural aspects of gauge theories

Gauge symmetry represents in modern theoretical physics one of the main pillars in several successful frameworks. The standard model of elementary particles is probably the most famous example and, especially in the realm of quantum physics, many models implementing the gauge principle have been formulated and thoroughly studied. Yet, it is widely accepted, that our present understanding of the structural aspects of these theories as well as their role in a foundational and axiomatic framework for quantum field theory is not as developed as our current knowledge of their phenomenological consequences. This topical workshop is a timely event which represents an important occasion to review recent achievements and to start a fruitful discussion on the open issues and on the directions of future research.