The six vertex model and symmetric polynomials

Lattice models from statistical mechanics have become increasingly ubiquitous in algebraic combinatorics. In this talk, we will discuss the six vertex model and see relations with combinatorial objects like Gelfand-Tsetlin patterns and alternating sign matrices. We will also introduce the Yang-Baxter equation and use it to prove Tokuyama's theorem and build a connection with Schur polynomials.