Shape and shell evolution in heavy nuclei

Our work focuses on the structure of neutron-rich nuclei, studying a range of phenomena including shape evolution, K-isomerism, and shell structure around the N=126 closed shell, with the eventual goal of pushing towards the path of the astrophysical r-process.

Overview

This work takes place at a variety of fragmentation and ISOL radioactive beam facilities and utilises a variety of experimental techniques including gamma-ray spectroscopy and lifetime measurements. For lifetime measurements we frequently make use of the Surrey led FATIMA array of lanthanum tri-bromide (LaBr3) detectors.

Research areas

  • Nuclear structure around the doubly closed shell nucleus 208Pb
  • The limits and theory of K-isomerism
  • Shape evolution in the vicinity of the doubly mid shell nucleus 270Dy
  • Industrial applications of nuclear structure studies.

Staff members

If you want to find out more about the research we are doing or just have a general query, then please get in touch.

Student using physics equipment

Study with us

We host many types of research fellow or you can apply to do a PhD with us. We also offer project work as part of our undergraduate and masters courses.