Ab initio open core shell model for nuclear structure

The SU(3) symmetry-adapted version of the No-Core Shell Model (NCSM), which reduces to the Elliott SU(3) Model in its 0ω limit, is described and shown to be effective in providing an efficient description of low-lying eigenstates of 12C and 16O. A symmetry-guided framework is suggested based on our recent findings of low-spin and high-deformation dominance in realistic NCSM results. This holds promise to significantly enhance the reach of ab initio shell models. © 2010 IOP Publishing Ltd