Microscopic calculation of symmetry projected nuclear level densities

We present a quantum Monte Carlo method with exact projection on parity and angular momentum that is free of a sign problem for seniority-conserving nuclear interactions. This technique allows the microscopic calculation of angular momentum and parity-projected nuclear level densities. We present results for the {sup 55}Fe, {sup 56}Fe, and {sup 57}Fe isotopes. Signatures of the pairing phase transition are observed in the angular momentum distribution of the nuclear level density.