Becoming the No. 1 University for Nuclear Engineering: University of Michigan Deep Dive with Department Chair, Dr. Todd Allen
What does it mean to be the #1 nuclear engineering program in the country?
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Todd Allen, department chair of the University of Michigan’s Nuclear Engineering & Radiological Sciences (NERS) program, to explore the history, mission, and future of a department that blends technical excellence with human-centered education. From submarines to art tunnels, this conversation offers a 360° look at what makes Michigan a true nuclear powerhouse.
We cover:
How a student-led movement after WWII became the Michigan Memorial Phoenix Project
How Michigan is preparing students for advanced nuclear innovation
The creation of a living memorial through art and engineering
Undergraduate and graduate experiences in one of the world’s most well-funded and research-rich departments
The Harper All Stars and how mentorship and scholarships are shaping the next generation
The OECD Global Forum on Nuclear Energy Science, Technology & Policy, hosted at Michigan this fall
🔬 Michigan NERS Main Page
https://ners.engin.umich.edu🕊️ History of the Michigan Memorial Phoenix Project
https://ners.engin.umich.edu/academics/harperacademy/
https://www.charlesharpercharities.org/harper-academy-4-future-nuclear-engineers🎨 Phoenix-Themed Tunnel Art Installation
https://news.engin.umich.edu/2023/08/a-nuclear-engineering-education-inspired-by-art🧑🎓 Harper Academy All Stars (Charles Harper Charities)
https://ners.engin.umich.edu/2024/09/16/harper-academy-all-stars-support-ners-research
https://www.charlesharpercharities.org/harper-academy-4-future-nuclear-engineers🌍 OECD Global Forum on Nuclear Energy Science, Technology & Policy – Hosted at U-M
https://ners.engin.umich.edu/2024/07/01/u-m-to-host-oecd-nea-global-forum-on-nuclear-energy
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