Investigation of the E2 and E3 matrix elements in

A nuclear structure campaign has been initiated to investigate the isotopes of mercury near A = 199. Currently 199Hg provides the most stringent limit on an atomic electric dipole moment (EDM). The observation of a permanent EDM would represent a clear signal of CP violation from new physics beyond the Standard Model. Theoretical calculations for 199Hg are very difficult and give varied predictions for the excited-state spectrum. Understanding the E2 and E3 strengths in the neighbouring even-even isotopes of mercury will make it possible to develop a nuclear structure model for the Schiff strength based on these matrix elements, and thereby constrain present model predictions of the contribution of octupole collectivity to the Schiff moment of the nucleus