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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.
Chicago Local Section Event
June 6, 2024|7:00–8:00PM (8:00–9:00PM EDT)
Available to All Users
The ANS Chicago Local Section is hosting a presentation from Alex Wheeler of Curio, a company pioneering innovative nuclear waste recycling solutions and unlocking the full potential of the atom. From closing the fuel cycle to producing proliferation-hardened alternative fuels for current and advanced reactors, Curio envisions a future powered by clean, sustainable, and carbon-free nuclear energy.
Alex Wheeler is a Sr. Nuclear Engineer working for Curio. He received his Bachelor's and Master's degree from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, and researched topics for MSRs, fuel cycle, and nonproliferation. Currently, Curio has received an ARPA-E grant to study NuCycle, an innovative method of recycling spent nuclear fuel, and Alex has spent much of his work focused research and development of NuCycle. Alex has also worked on reactor design concepts that utilize TRUfuel.
