Generalized Parton Distributions from Lattice QCD
Dru Renner
University of Arizona

Generalized parton distributions determine the transverse distribution of partons within the nucleon as well as the fraction of the nucleon spin carried by the orbital angular momentum and helicity of the partons. Lattice QCD calculations of the generalized parton distributions will provide an essential complement to the experimental determination of the nucleon's structure. In particular lattice QCD calculations provide insight into the transverse distribution of quarks within the nucleon and additionally determine the elastic form factors, the spin decomposition of the nucleon, and low moments of the ordinary parton distributions. I will review our ongoing lattice QCD calculations of the generalized parton distributions of the nucleon and highlight those aspects of nucleon structure best illuminated by lattice QCD.