Search for E0 Transitions in $^{154}$Gd*

Recent studies have shown the existence of 16 0+ states in $^{154}$Gd. Understanding the nature of these low-lying 0+ states in deformed nuclei remains one of the open questions in nuclear structure. A recent review indicates that it is important to measure the E0s, B(E2) values, and transfer reaction cross sections to fully determine the nature of 0+ states. We will report on our search for E0 transitions between these states in $^{154}$Gd following the $^{152}$Sm($\alpha$,2n) reaction using the Internal Conversion Electron Ball (ICEBall) array in coincidence with $\gamma$-rays at the University of Notre Dame Nuclear Science Laboratory (NSL). ICEBall was re-implemented at the NSL 3 years ago and the $\gamma$-rays were detected by the HPGe detectors of Clovershare. Details of the experiment and preliminary results will be presented.