Partial local resolution by characteristic zero methods

Abstract: We discuss to what extent the local techniques of resolution of singularities over fields of characteristic zero can be applied to improve singularities in general. For certain interesting classes of singularities, this leads to an embedded resolution via blowing ups in regular centers. We illustrate this for generic determinantal varieties. The article is partially expository and is addressed to non-experts who aim to construct resolutions for other special classes of singularities in positive or mixed characteristic.