ANS is committed to advancing, fostering, and promoting the development and application of nuclear sciences and technologies to benefit society.
Explore the many uses for nuclear science and its impact on energy, the environment, healthcare, food, and more.
Explore membership for yourself or for your organization.
Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
Latest Magazine Issues
Jul 2026
Jan 2026
2026
Latest Journal Issues
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.
VIEW RECIPIENTSSUBMIT NOMINATION
Nomination Deadline
August 1
Presented at the
Winter Conference
Monetary Award*
$1,000
The Social Responsibility in the Nuclear Community Award recognizes an individual, group, or organization for outstanding efforts in social responsibility expanding workforce and professional development access or community-building in the nuclear community. The award may be presented for a singular outstanding effort or a sustained effort over a long period of time.
The award consists of an engraved plaque and a $1,000 monetary award* presented annually at the ANS Winter Conference.
*In lieu of a cash award, recipients can opt for travel reimbursement up to the award amount.
Established in 2020, this award highlights and recognizes the important work done at many levels to expand the workforce inside and outside the nuclear community.
The award is given to an individual, group, or organization who has made a significant and impactful contribution to expanding the workforce within the nuclear community. This can be exemplified by either one significant initiative or a sustained effort over time and potentially many initiatives.
Nominations must include the completed nomination form accompanied by the following supporting documents:
The selection committee consists of six (6) members – three (3) from the Honors and Awards Committee and three (3) from the ANS CARES Committee, appointed by the respective chairs. It is awarded once per year if an eligible candidate is nominated and selected.
View Award