Towards lattice QCD inputs for neutrino-nucleus scattering

Next-generation neutrino oscillation experiments will require precise knowledge of neutrino-nucleus cross sections to achieve precise measurements of neutrino oscillation parameters. Lattice QCD can be used to calculate nuclear matrix elements relevant for describing electroweak interactions across a range of energies. I will discuss recent progress in lattice QCD calculations of the energy spectrum and matrix elements of light nuclei, in particular variational methods for controlling important systematic uncertainties arising from excited-state effects.