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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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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.
Technical Session|Panel
Thursday, April 8, 2021|2:00–3:00PM EDT
Session Chair:
Shannon M. Bragg-Sitton (INL)
Alternate Chair:
Ishita Trivedi
Session Organizer:
Edward Chen (NC State Univ.)
Track Organizer:
Session Producers:
William Dawn (NCSU)
National laboratories have been largely responsible for the development and implementation of groundbreaking and novel technologies that are the cornerstone of nuclear science and technology. In this panel, the differences between a career in industry, academia, or at a national lab will be discussed. Additionally, the panelists will share insight on why and how to pursue a career in a national laboratory. View Friederike Bostelmann's Presentation
Friederike Bostelmann
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Avneet Sood
Los Alamos National Laboratory
Scott Richards
Argonne National Laboratory
Jonathan Coburn
North Carolina State University
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