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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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Jul 2026
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2026
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
September 2026
Nuclear Technology
August 2026
Fusion Science and Technology
Latest News
The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Dr. Jeremy T. Busby – Fellow
Prof. Jin Jiang – Fellow
Dr. Stephen G. Johnson – Fellow
Dr. Ann Bisconti – Walter H. Zinn Medal
Julie G. Ezold – E. Gail de Planque Medal
Dr. Anna S. Erickson – Mary Jane Oestmann Professional Women’s Achievement Award
Dr. Yutai Katoh – Mishima Award
Carl A. Willis – Landis Public Communication and Education Award
Dr. Paul P. Wilson – Young Members Advancement Award (YMG)
Alyse S. Huffman – Young Member Excellence Award (YMG)
James Florence – Standards Service Award
Dr. Ian B. Wall – Standards Service Award
Dr. B. John Garrick – W. Bennett Lewis Award (DESD)
Sen. James E. Risch – Presidential Citation
Dr. Richard A. Meserve – Dwight D. Eisenhower Medal
Last modified December 11, 2019, 11:46am CST
