NUCLEAR SAFEGUARDS EDUCATION INITIATIVES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO

The University of New Mexico has recently joined the Next Generation Safeguards Initiative (NGSI) sponsored by the National Nuclear Security Administration, specifically NA-24, International Safeguards. As part of the NGSI effort to revitalize human capital for nuclear safeguards, the University of New Mexico (UNM) is in the process of creating and offering a variety of undergraduate and graduate level courses in areas associated with nuclear nonproliferation. UNM’s effort is being developed and executed through close interaction with DOE’s national security laboratories, particularly Sandia National Laboratories (Albuquerque) and Los Alamos National Laboratory. Nuclear safeguards subject matter experts from these and other laboratories help develop specific course modules and perform lectures. A unique feature of the UNM effort is the incorporation of lectures in advanced applications of game theoretic techniques, with specific focus on IAEA inspection games as well as the use of game theory in assessing proliferation potential of nations and fuel cycle elements. In addition, UNM’s Center for Nuclear Nonproliferation Science and Technology (CNNST) is expanding its website to include an extensive library of published papers in areas associated with nuclear safeguards and nuclear nonproliferation. The presentation will highlight courses underway as well as those planned for the near future (i.e., the fall 2011 semester). Additional effort is expected in areas associated with distance learning using the UNM Distance Education network. A longer-term objective of the UNM program is the creation of a Certificate in Nuclear Nonproliferation Science and Technology awarded in conjunction with a Masters Degree in Nuclear Engineering