9312628 Draayer The aim of the program in theoretical nuclear physics at Louisiana State University, which is under the direction of Professor J.P. Draayer and currently involves five graduate students (four in physics and one in computer science) and one postdoctoral research associate, is to give a simple but accurate description of the properties of heavy nuclei, like those in the rare earth (e.g., erbium) and actinide (e.g., uranium) regions which are made up of a large number of protons plus neutrons (greater than 150). These species are heavy enough to display generic features shared with neighboring elements and yet show unique individual characteristics that we can use to learn about how protons and neutrons interact among themselves and with each other inside the nuclear medium. We are seeking to answer in an intellectually honest way questions such as, "Why do rotational and vibrational modes dominate the structure of heavy nuclei?" The research involves training of graduate students in critical thinking skills and the use of state-of-the-art computing facilities, such as supercomputers (available at centers across the country) and parallel machines (available through special "8g" state funding) that will help define the next generation of megacomputers. 7' 7 7l 7 7 7` 7 7 7E 74 7 7 7 71 7M 7 7 7 7 7 7 7H 7" 7" 7 7 7 7 8? 8 U WV F F 0 (<&>Z t F 1 *< ^ F & Ht HH|?p=H~ 8 F F + F t F ^ & ? u = | F F F v v v /p0 ~ u v v V 7 F P F P v v v V ~ Q 2 , F ~ t ~ t ~ t ~ u ~ @ ! ! A ( Times New Roman Symbol & Arial " h R R R / terri l. hicks terri l. hicks
