Nuclear Structure and Nuclear Astrophysics

University Of Notre Dame, Notre Dame IN

Investigators

Abstract

This proposal will provide for continuing research at the Nuclear Structure Laboratory (NSL) of the University of Notre Dame for a period of three years. Research at the NSL is based on a broad program in low energy nuclear physics and includes studies of nuclear reactions, structure, dynamics, and fundamental symmetries spanning the subfields of Nuclear Astrophysics, Weak Interactions and Fundamental Symmetries, Nuclear Structure, and studies of Nuclear Reactions with Radioactive Ion Beams (RIBs). This proposal represents a growing trend towards a more cohesive and synergistic research program as our interests coalesce in the area of Nuclear Astrophysics. We are enthusiastic about future developments in low energy physics with the proposed construction of the rare isotope accelerator RIA. Our funding request includes the support of three accelerators (JN, KN, and FN) and various new developments in detectors, ion sources, and new systems for fast transport of radioactive materials. While the scientific output of the NSL and its impact to low-energy nuclear physics has been tremendous, the most important part of our mission is education. The obvious impact to Technology transfer via our education mission has been substantial. Typically, 9 Ph.D. are awarded in a given three year period. The Nuclear Structure Laboratory is a national and an international resource with a lively user program from 14 US facilities including universities and national laboratories, 11 foreign countries, and I industrial laboratory.