THEORY

Theoretical research in low-energy nuclear physics at GANIL encompasses nuclear structure and nuclear reactions, both of which are in close conjunction with the laboratory’s experimental activities. Additionally, there are developments tailored to nuclear astrophysics and the Virgo collaboration. These activities are part of numerous international collaborations.

In the field of nuclear structure, the research activity encompasses the development of simple models of nuclei based on symmetry principles within the shell model and the interacting boson model. This research also focuses on loosely bound nuclei, with the development of dedicated models such as the non-Hermitian approach of the Shell Model Embedded in the Continuum (SMEC), and the Hermitian approach of the Gamow shell model (GSM).

The latter model, which incorporates both scattering states and decay channels, finds also applications in the study of nuclear reactions. Another objective of the research activities in nuclear reactions is to furnish a comprehensive description of the reaction that leads to the synthesis of super-heavy nuclei, with consideration for the uncertainties inherent in the model.

Finally, the GANIL theory group is also active in the study of properties of nuclei and (hot) dense matter in compact objects, and specifically in core-collapse supernovae (SN) and their compact remnants, neutron stars (NSs), but also in the interior of white dwarfs.

The theory group at GANIL is currently comprised of 3.5 full-time equivalent permanent researchers, in addition to a small number of postdoctoral researchers and PhD students. Furthermore, it provides training to numerous interns on an annual basis and engaged in educational activities at Université de Caen Normandie and Nantes Université, as well as dedicated training schools.