WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) concluded a conference showcasing the leading edge nuclear nonproliferation research being conducted at premier universities and by industry experts.

The University and Industry Technical Interchange (UITI) included over 75 presentations by leading researchers to showcase nuclear detection research.  The conference provided a forum for technical interactions among researchers from universities, industry, NNSA and Department of Energy laboratories and other U.S. government agencies.  The NNSA’s Office of Nonproliferation Research and Development sponsored research is a strategic component of the United States’ nonproliferation programs.

“Technical conferences, such as the University and Industry Technical Interchange, are crucial to advancing both national and international methods to detect nuclear proliferation,” said  Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation William Tobey.  “Research in this area is another step in our effort to strengthen nonproliferation efforts worldwide.”

The research results presented at the UITI encompassed a wide range of technologies for detecting illicit foreign production of nuclear materials or the movement of these materials by terrorist groups. Among the technologies presented were: cutting edge research on spectral and optical systems, detection algorithms, advanced radiation detection materials and modeling technologies for detecting nuclear proliferation.

Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science.  NNSA maintains and enhances the safely, security, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; works to reduce global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies the U.S. and abroad.

Media contact(s):
NNSA Public Affairs (202) 586-7371