Connections between quantum chromodynamics and condensed matter physics

Features of QCD can be seen qualitatively in certain condensed matter systems. Recently some of the analyses that originated in condensed matter physics have found applications in QCD. Using examples we discuss some of the connections between the two fields and show how progress can be made by exploiting this connection. Some of the challenges that remain in the two fields are quite similar. We argue that recent algorithmic developments call for optimism in both fields.