Honorary doctorate lecture: Nuclear reaction computer simulations for a better world

Abstract

Computer simulations of nuclear reactions have evolved from purely academic tools into essential instruments for solving global societal challenges.

By combining advanced theoretical models, high‑performance computing, and international nuclear data infrastructures, modern nuclear reaction simulations now directly support health care, clean energy, security, and fundamental science.

A prime example is the TALYS code, which contains predictive nuclear reaction models, capable of describing particle‑induced reactions over wide energy ranges and across the entire nuclear chart. These models enable us not only to interpret existing measurements, but—crucially—to predict nuclear data where experiments are difficult, costly, or impossible.

Three examples of applications will be given:

• The Medical Isotope Browser: Predict production yields for accelerator‑produced medical isotopes
• Optimize nuclear spent fuel storage through advanced uncertainty quantification (in collaboration with Uppsala University)
• Nucleosynthesis in astrophysics