Date/Time
Date(s) - 02/08/2024
1:55 pm - 2:55 pm
Location
Rhines Hall 125
Categories
Abstract
The research portfolio of my group lies at the intersection of nuclear thermal hydraulics, reactor neutronics, and nuclear materials. This includes analysis of nominal nuclear reactor operation, anticipated transients, and accident events. My group is a key contributor in the study of reactor performance and safety characteristics of Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF), including fuel safety research and transients, as well as advanced reactor concepts. Accelerating the deployment and extending the availability of ultra-low carbon-emitting existing technology (including safety improvements or life extensions for existing nuclear power plants) are also vital pillars of our research. This talk articulates my vision for my research group. I also highlight recent progress in: advanced manufactured materials to enhance reactor and fuel safety, improved mechanistic modeling of critical heat flux to better understand reactor safety margins, and advanced composite moderators to make high-temperature reactors more economical. I will also highlight my teaching, service to the university and profession, and actions taken to help create an inclusive environment.
Bio
Nicholas Brown, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
University of Tennessee – Knoxville
Dr. Nicholas Brown is an Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies of Nuclear Engineering at the University of Tennessee. Dr. Brown’s research group focuses on pragmatic interdisciplinary solutions to nuclear science and engineering challenges. He was previously a professor at Penn State University, an R&D staff member at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and a scientific staff member at Brookhaven National Laboratory. He has authored or co-authored more than 90 peer-reviewed journal articles, and two book chapters, along with more than 100 total conference publications and national laboratory reports. Dr. Brown has served as Chair of the Nuclear Installations Safety Division of the American Nuclear Society and has served in numerous other ANS roles throughout his career. He has had more than 25 grants and contracts as a Principal or Co-Principal Investigator, in addition to past technical leadership on several national laboratory projects. He is fundamentally dedicated to student success, creating an inclusive environment, and service. His recent honors and awards include the David Okrent Award and Landis Technical Achievement Awards from ANS and the University of Tennessee Tickle College of Engineering Professional Promise in Research Award. Dr. Brown earned his Ph.D. from Purdue University.