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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
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Fusion Science and Technology
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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
Tuesday, July 23, 2024|10:00–11:50AM CDT|Assembly
Session Chair:
Lauren M. Garrison (Commonwealth Fusion Systems)
Session Organizer:
Alternate Chair:
Charles Hirst
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Introduction and Status of the Fusion Prototypic Neutron Source Risk Reduction Activity
10:00–10:25AM CDT
Brian Grierson (General Atomics), Sara Ferry (MIT), Phil Ferguson (ORNL), Jaime Marian (Univ. of California, Los Angeles), Eric Pitcher (Boston Government Services), Brian Wirth (Univ. Tennessee, Knoxville), Jim White (StrataG)
Paper
Ion-Beam-Driven Polywell Fusion Prototypic Neutron Source
10:25–10:50AM CDT
Ross Radel (SHINE Technologies), Nicholas Krall (EMC2), Thomas Weber (LANL)
Micro-FPNS Concept for a 1 DPA/yr 14.1 MeV Neutron Source Based on the Hybrid Electrostatic/Magnetic Confinement Orbitron Fusion Reactor
10:50–11:10AM CDT
Robin Langtry (Avalanche Energy Designs)
Thermal Gradient and Neutron Irradiation Experiment Design for Fusion Reactor Materials in the Advanced Test Reactor
11:10–11:30AM CDT
Michael Worrall (INL), Daniel Chapman (INL), Ryan Sandbek (INL), Hanns Gietl (INL), Nicolas Woolstenhulme (INL), Jason Brookman (INL)
Accelerating Ion Irradiation Sample Throughput via Lateral Gas Implantation Gradients
11:30–11:50AM CDT
Charles A. Hirst (Univ. Michigan), Aäron G. Penders (Univ. Michigan), Alexander Flick (Univ. Michigan), Fabian U. Naab (Univ. Michigan), Logan N. Clowers (Univ. Michigan), Lauren M. Garrison (Commonwealth Fusion Systems), Cody A. Dennett (Commonwealth Fusion Systems), Michael P. Short (MIT), Gary S. Was (Univ. Michigan)
