FPU2023-Nuclear shape coexistence in odd Hg isotopes investigated by the Total Absorption Spectroscopy (TAS) technique

The research topic proposed here will provide an opportunity to pursue a PhD in experimental nuclear physics. The candidate will analyze data from the IS707 experiment, recently and successfully carried out at ISOLDE CERN (Geneva), to measure the beta decay of odd Hg isotopes using the Total Absorption Spectroscopy (TAS) technique. The study of these Hg isotopes is relevant, as they exhibit almost-unique features in the entire nuclear chart, important for understanding nuclear shape coexistence phenomena. As a matter of fact, nuclei exist in different shapes, such as spherical, prolate, or oblate. Investigating shape coexistence and shape transition is of utmost relevance in nuclear physics. Here the goal is to conduct the first study on isomers with different shapes that coexist within the same nucleus using the TAS technique. This involves extracting the beta-decay strength which, when compared to theoretical calculations, allows one to determine the nuclear shape. The PhD researcher will conduct the data analysis, acquiring proficiency in the high-performance data-analysis framework ROOT, and in Monte Carlo simulations, which are both widely used in the nuclear and particle physics communities. The candidate will lead the subsequent publications, which are expected in high-impact journals of the field, as this is the first study of its kind. Presenting the results at international conferences is also encouraged.