Complex-scaled ab initio QED approach to autoionizing states

An ab initio method based on a complex-scaling approach and aimed at a rigorous QED description of autoionizing states is worked out. The autoionizing-state binding energies are treated nonperturbatively in α Z and include all the many-electron QED contributions up to the second order. The higher-order electron correlation, nuclear recoil, and nuclear polarization effects are taken into account as well. The developed formalism is demonstrated on the L L resonances in helium-like argon and uranium. The most accurate theoretical predictions for the binding energies are obtained.