Nonproliferation, Nuclear Forensics, and Advanced Reactors at INL

with Tommy Holschuh, Idaho National Lab

Friday, September 18, 10:10 am
440 Goodwin Hall, Blacksburg

At Idaho National Laboratory (INL), the extensive array of specialized experimental facilities provides researchers with unique opportunities to explore critical aspects of nuclear science and engineering. These facilities enable investigations into various phenomena, including the behavior and performance of nuclear reactor fuels, advancements in materials science, and the development of enhanced reactor safety measures. Each of these efforts supports and aligns with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Nuclear Energy mission, which aims to advance the safe, secure, and sustainable use of nuclear energy to meet national and global energy needs. Recent developments at INL highlight the laboratory’s leadership in innovation, including the design and construction of advanced reactor technologies and next-generation reactor fuels. These advancements are paving the way for more efficient, resilient, and environmentally sustainable nuclear energy systems. Additionally, INL continues to address pressing challenges in the fields of nuclear nonproliferation and post-detonation nuclear forensics. By leveraging existing and upcoming nuclear energy facilities as test beds, INL plays a critical role in developing technologies and methodologies that enhance international nuclear safeguards and strengthen domestic emergency response capabilities. Through this multifaceted approach, INL remains at the forefront of driving progress in nuclear energy research and its applications for global and national security.

Tommy Holschuh graduated from Oregon State University with his B.S., M.Eng., and Ph.D. in 2013, 2015, and 2017. Dr. Holschuh has been employed in the national lab complex since 2007 between Sandia National Laboratories and Idaho National Laboratory. In 2017, he was selected as the inaugural DeBoisblanc distinguished post-doctoral researcher at INL and was hired as full staff in 2019. He currently supports the Radiochemistry and Nuclear Measurements department at INL within the National and Homeland Security directorate. His research experience includes computational and experimental reactor physics, nuclear nonproliferation projects, and post-irradiation examination for nuclear experiments, particularly gamma-ray spectrometry.