Click here for an archived PDF of the Q2 2025 email newsletter.
A note from our Chair
Hello TRTR Community! It’s been another busy quarter for the community. Earlier this month, the White House issued a series of executive orders aimed at accelerating nuclear energy deployment, modernizing regulation, and bolstering domestic fuel supply. While much of the public focus has been on commercial power production and advanced reactors, these actions carry meaningful implications for our community. Below are a few highlights:
Fast-Tracking Advanced Reactor Licensing – The Department of Energy (DOE) and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) have been directed to streamline the licensing process for advanced and next-generation reactors. This could create opportunities for RTRs to play expanded roles in fuel qualification, material testing, and workforce development aligned with these new designs.
Increased Support for Domestic Uranium Production – A renewed emphasis on boosting domestic uranium production—currently meeting only a fraction of U.S. demand—may lead to changes in how research reactors secure and qualify fuel. There could be new incentives or mandates favoring U.S.-origin uranium, with downstream impacts on supply chains and reactor operations.
NRC Reform and Regulatory Realignment – Perhaps most notable for RTRs is the directive to overhaul NRC structure and operations. While the goal is to reduce regulatory burden and improve agility, the process could bring uncertainty in the near term, especially for facilities undergoing license renewals or modifications. We will monitor this closely and advocate for clarity and continuity in RTR-specific guidance.
Strategic Role in National Priorities – With nuclear energy now identified as critical infrastructure for AI and defense applications, research reactors are uniquely positioned to contribute to thermal testing, isotopes for quantum computing, and other mission-driven innovation. The community may see increased collaboration with national labs and federal agencies seeking rapid, flexible R&D capabilities.
This is an exciting time for the community and I encourage you to remain engaged with the NRC and share your insights with the community. Please continue to participate in the NRC’s quarterly calls and feel free to reach out to me anytime.
Cameron Goodwin Rhode Island Nuclear Science Center
