Precise knowledge of how protons and neutrons arrange themselves in atomic nuclei is essential to advance our understanding of visible matter in the Universe. This requires meticulous measurement of their individual quantum orbits. Nucleon-transfer reactions, where a particle is transferred between an energetic ion and a stationary nucleus, are ideal for this purpose. Outgoing reaction products are measured and used as ‘fingerprints’ for understanding the properties of nuclear states populated in each reaction. 

The ANU Enge Magnetic Spectrometer has recently been upgraded to create a new research program based on these experiments at the Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility. A specialised radiation detector has been built to detect and charachterise reaction products, along with other engineering upgrades that include rotating a 30-ton magnet without springing any vacuum leaks. 

Some of the new research topics will include: studying how fundamental forces evolve across chains of neighbouring nuclei, unexpected nuclear shape changes, and exotic decay processes that may point to new physics beyond the ‘Standard Model’. 

Student work, at the moment, is largely based around instrumentation and software development, planning and executing experiments to study aspects of the nuclear shell model, or analysing existing data from complementary experiments performed overseas. Our students who work on this project are also encouraged to contribute to the local research activities at the Heavy Ion Accelerator Facility. Projects can be tailored to suit the student’s level of experience, interests, and desired learning outcomes. We are happy to answer any questions you might have, and we’re keen to welcome new students into our research group. 

No specific background knowledge in nuclear physics is required, the best way to learn is by ‘doing’. You'll be at at an advantage if you've completed one of our nuclear coursework courses. This project will suit students who are curious about nuclear physics, developing novel radiation detectors, and enjoy solving puzzles.