General Lab Information

Nuclear Science & Security Department

Advancing nuclear research and technology to ensure safe and secure applications at home and abroad

The Nuclear Science and Security Department advances cutting-edge research, development, and technical innovation to ensure the safe and secure use of nuclear technologies. We develop and apply advanced modeling, simulation, and reliability assessment methods for reactors, small modular reactors, and energy systems. Our work also includes pioneering research in nuclear science and materials, enhancing the performance, resilience, and safety of nuclear systems and fuels.

We support U.S. government initiatives in nuclear materials safeguards, security, and arms control treaty verification. Through our integrated expertise in nuclear engineering, science, and materials research, we drive innovation while strengthening global efforts to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Department Groups

International Safeguards Project Office

ISPO manages the United States Support Program to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Department of Safeguards. ISPO distributes information about technical support requirements for the IAEA Department of Safeguards and information about current job vacancies and the application processes.

Materials for Energy Applications

Informs the design of next generation materials by generating mechanistic insights via multi-modal studies of materials degradation and structure-property relationships in extreme environments such as high temperature, radiation, and corrosive environments.

National Nuclear Data Center

The National Nuclear Data Center (NNDC) collects nuclear physics data for basic nuclear research and for applied nuclear technologies—including information on nuclear structure and nuclear cross-sections—maintains nuclear databases, and disseminates the results.

Nonproliferation Policy and Implementation

NPI supports U.S. chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) nonproliferation initiatives through its international safeguards and security expertise: conducting outreach to partner countries to enhance safeguards and security; recommending policy for the use of safeguards and security best practices; and providing resources and training to strengthen both U.S. and international nonproliferation and security regimes.

Nuclear Systems & Structural Analysis

The mission of the group is to provide nuclear and engineering analysis support in matters related to nuclear reactor design and safety, non-reactor nuclear facilities, nuclear fuel cycles, and proliferation resistance and physical protection of nuclear energy systems.

Radiation Detection and Emerging Safeguards Technologies

Develops radiation detection technologies and applications in security, health physics and healthcare. The group maintains expertise in modeling, design and engineering development, testing, and field deployment of radiation detection systems.

Radiological Response Programs

Provides a regionally-based capability covering New England and the mid-Atlantic states to facilitate a rapid technical assessment of radiological or nuclear hazards. Also provides scientific support to U.S. government agencies that conduct programs that develop and update radiological and nuclear response planning guidance.

Reactor Systems & Risk Analysis

Carries out risk and reliability assessments of commercial nuclear power plants and other complex technological systems. Reviews risk assessments performed by others—such as utilities—to provide objective assessments to government regulators.

The Nuclear Science & Security Department is part of Brookhaven Lab's Environment, Biology, Nuclear Science & Nonproliferation Directorate.