High-spin isomers: structure and applications

High-spin-isomer research is briefly reviewed, with attention to the highest spins, the heaviest elements, proton-rich nuclei and neutron-rich nuclei. The utility of isomers is emphasised in connection with the study of exotic nuclei, where isomeric states may be longer lived than ground states. It is pointed out that isomers may also provide opportunities for studying effects at the atomic-nuclear interface.