$44 million for nuclear energy R&D goes to universities
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PrintThe Department of Energy (DoE) announced the award of $44 million to 71 projects, under the Nuclear Energy University Program (NEUP). These funds will be made available over three years to advance new nuclear technologies in support of the nation’s energy goals.
In a statement, Energy Secretary Steven Chu said “as a zero-carbon energy source, nuclear power must be part of our energy mix as we work toward energy independence and meeting the challenge of global warming,” He added that "these research and development university awards will ensure that the United States continues to lead the world in the nuclear field for years to come.”
Under this program, 31 U.S. universities will act as lead research institutions for projects in more than 20 states. Other universities, industries, and national laboratories will serve as collaborators and research partners.
Contracts for the R&D projects are expected to be awarded by September 30, 2009.
In addition, as part of the DoE’s efforts to recruit and train the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers, it is offering $2.9 million in university fellowships and scholarships to support students entering the nuclear science and engineering fields. The DoE announced that further details on the fellowships are available from the Center for Advanced Energy Studies.
