Module structure of Weyl algebras

Abstract The seminal paper (Stafford, J. Lond. Math. Soc . (2) 18 (1978), no. 3, 429–442) was a major step forward in our understanding of Weyl algebras. Beginning with Serre's Theorem on free summands of projective modules and Bass' Stable Range Theorem in commutative algebra, we attempt to trace the origins of this work and explain how it led to Stafford's construction of non‐holonomic simple modules over Weyl algebras. We also describe Bernstein–Lunts' geometric construction of infinite families of non‐holonomic simple modules. We recall more recent developments related to Weyl algebras, especially that of parametrising right ideals in the first Weyl algebra and its relation to Calogero–Moser spaces. Finally, we revisit Stafford's results in the context of quantised symplectic singularities, where they lead naturally to open problems on the behaviour of simple modules.