Let S be a simply-connected rational homology complex projective plane with quotient singularities. The algebraic Montgomery-Yang problem conjectures that the number of singular points of S is at most three. In this talk, we leverage results from the study of smooth 4-manifolds, such as the Donaldson diagonalization theorem, to establish additional conditions for S. As a result, we eliminate the possibility of a rational homology complex projective plane of specific types with four singularities. We also identify infinite families of singularities that satisfy properties in algebraic geometry, including the orbifold BMY inequality, but are obstructed from being a rational homology complex projective plane due to smooth conditions. Additionally, we discuss experimental results related to this problem. This is joint work with Jongil Park and Kyungbae Park.

In this talk, I will talk about isotopy problems of Seifert surfaces pushed in to the 4-ball. In particular, I will prove that every Seifert surface of a non-split alternating link become isotopic in the 4-ball. This is a joint work with Maggie Miller and Jaehoon Yoo.