The nuclear structure of $^{227}$Fr

The $\gamma$-rays following the $\beta^{-}$-decay of $^{227}$Rn have been investigated by means of $\gamma$-ray singles and $\gamma\gamma$-coincidence measurements using an array of 12 Compton-suppressed Ge detectors. The fast timing $\beta\gamma\gamma$(t) method has been used to measure six level lifetimes. Multipolarities of 32 transitions in $^{227}$Fr have been established by measuring conversion electrons with a mini--orange electron spectrometer. Most of the observed transitions have been placed in a level scheme comprising 38 excited states of $^{227}$Fr. The low-lying levels are interpreted in terms of seven rotational bands. The observed E1 strengths for two transitions connecting the K$^{\pi}$=3/2 bands are consistent with the transitional character of $^{227}$Fr, and confirm the presence of octupole correlations in this nucleus.