On the quantum geometry of string theory

The IKKT or IIB matrix model has been proposed as a non-perturbative definition of type IIB superstring theories. It has the attractive feature that space-time appears dynamically. It is possible that lower dimensional universes dominate the theory, therefore providing a dynamical solution to the reduction of space-time dimensionality. We summarize recent works that show the central role of the phase of the fermion determinant in the possible realization of such a scenario