Why are theorists excited about exotic nuclei?

Theoretical Physics Colloquium by Prof. Filomena Nunes, National Superconducting Cyclotron Lab, Michigan State University
This presentation was held live on September 21, 2022 as part of the theoretical physics colloquium series hosted by Prof. Igor Shovkovy at the Arizona State University. The series features high-quality interactive presentations on current advances in theoretical physics by active researchers in the field of theoretical physics.
Abstract for this presentation:
Nuclei are at the heart of all matter. As prevalent as these are in our lives we are still surprised by their structure and interactions. When we explore the nuclear landscape away from stability, we encounter new phenomena that challenge understanding. As the the Facility for Rare Isotope Beam begins operations, I will discuss how theorists are approaching the challenge, while still connecting to the fundamental theory of the strong force. I will also present some of the best probes that allow us to glimpse into the properties of exotic nuclei. Our ultimate goal is to build a more robust and predictive model for nuclei, valid even for its most exotic forms [F. Nunes, Physics Today 74, 34 May (2021)].