Nuclear Engineering & Engineering Physics Research
Energy Transitions, Policy and Security
In this research area, we consider the societal role of fission and fusion energy in the clean energy transitions being pursued by the United States and other countries. Starting with methodologies and tools to explore how energy systems evolve within the constraints of both the physical world and the socio-political systems that govern them, we use the results of those scenario studies to explore questions of economics, security, and social license.
Faculty
Energy transition scenario studies
As a prerequisite to understanding the economic, environmental and social consequences of different energy transitions, this research area develops tools to anticipate the energy mixes that may emerge under different incentives and socio-political constraints, all within the constraints of the physical world. The Cyclus software ecosystem developed by Professor Wilson and his team tracks the material flows over time as advanced nuclear fuel cycles are explored to achieve a variety of aims. Professors Lindley and Wilson are also interested in understanding the role of nuclear energy in future energy systems at various scales, from individual campuses and integrated energy systems to regional transmission operators.
Nuclear security studies
Many advanced nuclear fuel cycles rely on technologies that could be diverted for non-peaceful applications. Designing safeguards for declared facilities and detection mechanisms for undeclared facilities can help support an international nuclear non-proliferation regime that has been largely successful at stemming the expansion of nuclear weapons. Professor Wilson uses a combination of modeling, simulation, and data science to better understand the opportunities to secure advanced nuclear fuel cycle facilities of the future.
Energy justice
Most energy systems around the world were developed with little consideration for the distribution of benefits and hazards throughout the population. As a result, some populations realize substantial benefits with few hazards and other populations live with many hazards and few benefits. As those energy systems transition to address global environmental challenges, there is a clear focus on also addressing the more local distribution of benefits and hazards. Professors Diem and Wilson are studying how community co-design processes can provide broader stakeholder perspectives in order to broaden the social license for fission and fusion energy technologies through designs that better match community values.
Science diplomacy
Realizing the potential of nuclear science and technology to safeguard the health of the planet and secure a sustainable future for humankind requires navigating the complex interactions between science, policy and society, which influence the deployment of nuclear technologies. Professor Wright explores the domestic and international policy drivers which influence social license, the regulatory climate and private-sector investment for nuclear technologies, including fusion energy. Of particular interest is examining the role of contemporary geopolitics as a policy driver of both domestic and international R&D efforts in nuclear science and technologies, and how science diplomacy may be used as a mechanism for shaping nuclear science research programs and technology deployment.