Speaker
Description
The sustainability of nuclear science and technology depends on the development of a technically skilled workforce capable of supporting missions in energy, security, medicine, and environmental stewardship. Gap analyses conducted as part of US Department of Energy program across the nuclear enterprise have identified critical shortages in radiochemistry expertise, particularly at the technician and early career scientist levels. Addressing these talent and capability gaps requires educational programs that integrate fundamental radiochemical science with applied laboratory training. An undergraduate radiochemistry training initiative is being developed at the University of Nevada Las Vegas to directly respond to these radiochemistry talent needs.
Information derived from workforce development studies and sustained mission oriented research programs has been used to design a multidisciplinary undergraduate curriculum that integrates faculty and resources from the College of Sciences and the College of Engineering. The program emphasizes hands on laboratory experience in radioanalytical methods, actinide chemistry, nuclear measurements, radiation detection, and separation science. Students will participate in research projects that expose them to real world radiochemical challenges, including isotope production, environmental radioactivity, nuclear forensics, and advanced nuclear fuel cycle chemistry. This experiential learning approach strengthens theoretical understanding while providing practical technical competencies required for employment in nuclear laboratories and industry.
The educational model incorporates direct engagement with US national laboratory partners and research programs supported by the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Nuclear Security Administration. Student participation in collaborative research activities provides training in radiochemical techniques, analytical instrumentation, quality assurance protocols, and nuclear material handling. These experiences are designed to prepare graduates for multiple career pathways, including immediate entry into the workforce as radiochemical technicians at national laboratories or industrial facilities, as well as progression into graduate level education in nuclear chemistry, radiochemistry, and nuclear engineering.
The program also addresses broader educational objectives by increasing student awareness of nuclear science applications and strengthening recruitment into radiochemistry degree pathways. The integration of undergraduate research with national mission priorities demonstrates how academic institutions can serve as critical contributors to workforce development. The development of this undergraduate radiochemistry program illustrates how gap driven educational strategies can produce technically proficient personnel while simultaneously advancing research capabilities and sustaining national nuclear science infrastructure.