Reactions allow for active exploration of nuclear properties,
they play an important role in the evolution of the Universe and,
further, they yield access to unique physical phenomena.
Much of current research emphasis is on reactions with unstable nuclei,
nuclei with a large neutron or proton excess. This project aims at
understanding both central and peripheral reactions involving
such exotic nuclei.
Central reactions reveal the dependence of bulk nuclear properties
on the neutron-proton content. Different peripheral reactions
under scrutiny are doorways to various astrophysical
processes as well as to the structure of
the exotic nuclei of interest.
Novel methods both for central and peripheral
reactions will be advanced, establishing, in particular,
links to mesoscopic phenomena elsewhere. Sensitivity to specific
reactions will be explored in supernova simulations.
This proposal will make an important contribution to the theoretical
foundations of existing RNB experimental programs (such as the NSCL),
as well as the studies planned for the new generation laboratories.
In adition, the diverse nature of the project will allow to effectively
engage the students at an early stage with nuclear research.