Special Heavy Ion Discussion Group, 8 January 2024, 10 a.m.
Title: Bringing the AMO Toolkit to Nuclear Physics
Speaker: Patrick Stollenwerk, Argonne National Laboratory
(Host: Darek Seweryniak)
Abstract: In recent decades, the field of Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics has witnessed a significant expansion in the variety and quality of tools for trapping and cooling matter, and generally controlling its quantum state. While traditionally applied to stable species, these versatile methods hold promise for investigating rare and unstable isotopes. In this talk I will discuss the Auger-Meitner Radioisotope Microscope (ARM), a new instrument leveraging recent advancements in cryogenic buffer gas beam technology. Through repurposing of AMO tools, the ARM is designed to characterize the Auger-Meitner electron emission of radionuclides, with a specific focus on candidates relevant to nuclear medicine. In addition to reviewing ARM, I will discuss my prior research on quantum state readout and control methods for trapped molecular ions, highlighting the flexibility and adaptability of AMO experiments. Finally, I will explore exciting research opportunities that combine the AMO toolkit and rare isotope beams, including probing nuclear structure through precision isotope shift spectroscopy and the search for physics beyond the standard model.