Fastest Path sponsors Nuclear Science Week
The event was a celebration of nuclear’s role in a zero-carbon future.
From October 17–21, 2022, the University of Michigan’s Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences (NERS) hosted Nuclear Science Week in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The event celebrated the pivotal role of nuclear science in creating a sustainable, low-carbon future, bringing together leaders, professionals, and students to discuss nuclear’s impact on energy, the environment, health, and national security.
Towards a Low-Carbon Future
The event kicked off with a virtual panel titled Towards a Low-Carbon Future: Why Young Professionals Are Excited About Nuclear Energy. Speakers from around the world, including representatives from the International Atomic Energy Agency and Nawah Energy Company, discussed how nuclear energy is uniquely positioned to help decarbonize the global energy sector while ensuring energy security and equity for all communities. Moderated by U-M NERS student Geneve Magnan, the panel reflected the enthusiasm of future nuclear leaders for advanced technologies and innovative policy frameworks.
Spotlight on Environmental Justice
Another highlight of the week was the U.S. WIN Outreach Webinar: Environmental Justice in the Nuclear Industry, which focused on the importance of fostering trust and ensuring inclusivity in disadvantaged communities impacted by nuclear and clean energy initiatives. Fastest Path’s Aditi Verma led a thought-provoking conversation with industry leaders on how nuclear energy can advance environmental justice while addressing climate change. Panelists stressed the need to prioritize equity when making decisions that affect vulnerable populations.
Innovations in Advanced Nuclear Technologies
A key theme of the week was nuclear innovation, particularly through the lens of advanced fission technologies. A special talk titled Advanced Fission Technologies: A New Dawn of Innovation featured Kristine Svinicki from NERS, who discussed the challenges and opportunities of next-generation reactor designs. As the global energy landscape shifts, the nuclear industry is embracing new approaches to meet evolving needs, and speakers emphasized how advanced nuclear technologies will play a crucial role in the clean energy transition.
Awarding Leaders in Nuclear Science
Nuclear Science Week also recognized the accomplishments of major figures in the field. Notably, James Duderstadt, former President of the University of Michigan, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his over 50 years of leadership in science, technology, and public policy. His contributions have helped shape national policy in nuclear engineering and the broader scientific community. Additionally, Jill Hruby, Under Secretary for Nuclear Security, was awarded the Nuclear Lifetime Achievement Award for her leadership in nuclear security and advocacy for women in engineering.
Building Bridges Between Science and Society
The week wrapped up with panel discussions, including the Spotlight on Clean Energy and Spotlight on Scientific Discovery, which showcased the contributions of nuclear science to environmental sustainability and cutting-edge research. Leaders from national laboratories such as Oak Ridge and Los Alamos joined these panels, highlighting how nuclear technologies are transforming the fields of energy, health, and national security.
Fastest Path to Zero’s sponsorship of Nuclear Science Week underscores its commitment to driving equitable, sustainable energy solutions through nuclear innovation. By supporting events that engage both experts and the public, Fastest Path is helping to shape the future of nuclear energy and its role in addressing the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.