'NuSec' Nuclear Security Science Network - Extension Grant
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Surrey
Department Name: Physics
Abstract
The importance and urgency for this proposed network is illustrated by recent data from the IAEA who maintains a database of incidents and illicit trafficking events of nuclear and radioactive material. From January 1993 to December 2013 the IAEA report 2477 incidents. Their conclusions include that material is available and that globally individuals and groups are prepared to engage in trafficking. Understandably, Nuclear security, in particular against terrorist attack, continues to be high priority to the UK's government. The national risk register of civil emergencies, published by the Cabinet Office says:
"The Government is prioritising efforts to stop terrorists gaining the capabilities to deliver such {chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear} attacks. But if terrorist groups were successful, their potential impact on the UK would be severe and significantly greater than a conventional attack. "
The national counter terrorism strategy CONTEST therefore says:
"...their impact is so high that we judge preparations must be made for them. As in so many other areas of this strategy those preparations must wherever possible be coordinated with our allies overseas. "
Much of those preparations require technological developments in Nuclear Security Science. This subject is multidisciplinary and critically dependent on end-user engagement to be effective. This network will be the mechanism that associates the broad spectrum of disciplines that could possibly contribute, with the end users (UK and international) who can articulate the requirements.
This program is an extension to our successful NuSec network in Nuclear Security Science which ran from 2015 to 2019. The scope of the network will remain focussed on radiation detectors and detection techniques applied to nuclear security applications, which lies within the STFC Global Challenges 'security' theme of the network call. A key objective will be to build research capability in nuclear security topics and to continue to encourage dialogue and collaboration between academic researcher, primarily but not limited to the STFC community, and stake holders in industry and government agencies. In addition the network will provide a point of focus for the UK community to better position themselves for future bids to major sources of funding both nationally (eg, STFC, other research councils, Innovate UK) and internationally principally through EU and US programmes.
A broad range of industrial, defence and academic partners are vital to the success of the network. The UK has traditionally had a very strong representation in detector development within the academic community, but this has tended to focus on large-scale national science priorities principally funded through STFC. Therefore this network will provide a strong forum for the research community to engage with end-users in industry and the defence sectors, and to allow these stakeholders to engage the academic community in their application challenges.
"The Government is prioritising efforts to stop terrorists gaining the capabilities to deliver such {chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear} attacks. But if terrorist groups were successful, their potential impact on the UK would be severe and significantly greater than a conventional attack. "
The national counter terrorism strategy CONTEST therefore says:
"...their impact is so high that we judge preparations must be made for them. As in so many other areas of this strategy those preparations must wherever possible be coordinated with our allies overseas. "
Much of those preparations require technological developments in Nuclear Security Science. This subject is multidisciplinary and critically dependent on end-user engagement to be effective. This network will be the mechanism that associates the broad spectrum of disciplines that could possibly contribute, with the end users (UK and international) who can articulate the requirements.
This program is an extension to our successful NuSec network in Nuclear Security Science which ran from 2015 to 2019. The scope of the network will remain focussed on radiation detectors and detection techniques applied to nuclear security applications, which lies within the STFC Global Challenges 'security' theme of the network call. A key objective will be to build research capability in nuclear security topics and to continue to encourage dialogue and collaboration between academic researcher, primarily but not limited to the STFC community, and stake holders in industry and government agencies. In addition the network will provide a point of focus for the UK community to better position themselves for future bids to major sources of funding both nationally (eg, STFC, other research councils, Innovate UK) and internationally principally through EU and US programmes.
A broad range of industrial, defence and academic partners are vital to the success of the network. The UK has traditionally had a very strong representation in detector development within the academic community, but this has tended to focus on large-scale national science priorities principally funded through STFC. Therefore this network will provide a strong forum for the research community to engage with end-users in industry and the defence sectors, and to allow these stakeholders to engage the academic community in their application challenges.
Planned Impact
Maximising impact is at the heart of the NuSec network, through the use of a range of funded impact activities that lie at the heart of the network's objectives. In this extension proposal we will continue to identify pathways to impact across the broad range of network activities.
Here we describe the wider impact that the NuSec network has achieved during Phase 1, and will continue to deliver in Phase 2.
1. The Beneficiaries
(i) Society - the nuclear security agenda is critical to national safeguarding and to the protection of society. A strong engagement between government agencies, academic and industry generates a benefit for all of society. A good example from Phase 1 of the network was our NuSec workshop on alternative technologies for the oil well logging industry. This brought together ~30 senior oil industry experts from Europe and US for a 2 day workshop at the Institute for Advanced Studies at Cambridge University.
(ii) People - the network continues to provide cross-fertilisation of technical expertise between research disciplines and the integration of the various stakeholder communities. Those engaging with the network extend their skills set and experience. The network offers grants to support a wide range of professional and researcher development skills, and to provide technical training opportunities to benefit researchers.
2. How the Network Activities will deliver Impact
The network delivers impact directly through its programme of regular and occasional activities.
Developing Strategic Partnerships
The network's primary objective has been to establish a forum for discussion and collaboration between the academic, industrial and defence sectors. This has accelerated the development of a strong research community in the nuclear science area, and has acted to broker interactions and partnership between the academic and MoD/Home Office communities. Our strategic partners each offer a unique input into the programme and are fully involved with the regular network meetings and technical workshops. Both the network's Management Group (MG) and End User Panel (EUP) are made up of key stakeholders who monitor the network's progress towards developing strategic partnerships. The independent Steering Board, representing the interests of the stakeholder groups, ensures the development of partnerships through these various activities.
Technology Development
The network will continue to receive direct funding from AWE to support pilot studies and small proof of concept studies. These are challenge-led projects that are focussed on the requirements of these government agency stakeholders. In this way the network develops technology demonstrators that address government requirements, for example as defined by the national counter terrorism strategy CONTEST which addresses the "...highest impact terrorist risks including even nuclear materials..." In Phase 1 of the network, NuSec awarded 15 of these pilot projects to UK Universities, which addresses technical challenges identified by the End Use Panel.
Dissemination activities
All network outputs are unclassified, and the majority are publicly available and openly disseminated, including technical workshop presentations, results from pilot studies, scoping documents and position papers. Dissemination uses a dedicated website to promote the network activities and outputs, and the University's Surrey Research Insight digital open access repository to store and disseminate network outputs and documents. The network showcase meeting will publicise the network outputs to a wider audience.
Supporting Researcher Engagement: The network will provide a series of opportunities for researchers to develop their technical skills and knowledge.
Full details are given in the separate Pathways to Impact Statement
Here we describe the wider impact that the NuSec network has achieved during Phase 1, and will continue to deliver in Phase 2.
1. The Beneficiaries
(i) Society - the nuclear security agenda is critical to national safeguarding and to the protection of society. A strong engagement between government agencies, academic and industry generates a benefit for all of society. A good example from Phase 1 of the network was our NuSec workshop on alternative technologies for the oil well logging industry. This brought together ~30 senior oil industry experts from Europe and US for a 2 day workshop at the Institute for Advanced Studies at Cambridge University.
(ii) People - the network continues to provide cross-fertilisation of technical expertise between research disciplines and the integration of the various stakeholder communities. Those engaging with the network extend their skills set and experience. The network offers grants to support a wide range of professional and researcher development skills, and to provide technical training opportunities to benefit researchers.
2. How the Network Activities will deliver Impact
The network delivers impact directly through its programme of regular and occasional activities.
Developing Strategic Partnerships
The network's primary objective has been to establish a forum for discussion and collaboration between the academic, industrial and defence sectors. This has accelerated the development of a strong research community in the nuclear science area, and has acted to broker interactions and partnership between the academic and MoD/Home Office communities. Our strategic partners each offer a unique input into the programme and are fully involved with the regular network meetings and technical workshops. Both the network's Management Group (MG) and End User Panel (EUP) are made up of key stakeholders who monitor the network's progress towards developing strategic partnerships. The independent Steering Board, representing the interests of the stakeholder groups, ensures the development of partnerships through these various activities.
Technology Development
The network will continue to receive direct funding from AWE to support pilot studies and small proof of concept studies. These are challenge-led projects that are focussed on the requirements of these government agency stakeholders. In this way the network develops technology demonstrators that address government requirements, for example as defined by the national counter terrorism strategy CONTEST which addresses the "...highest impact terrorist risks including even nuclear materials..." In Phase 1 of the network, NuSec awarded 15 of these pilot projects to UK Universities, which addresses technical challenges identified by the End Use Panel.
Dissemination activities
All network outputs are unclassified, and the majority are publicly available and openly disseminated, including technical workshop presentations, results from pilot studies, scoping documents and position papers. Dissemination uses a dedicated website to promote the network activities and outputs, and the University's Surrey Research Insight digital open access repository to store and disseminate network outputs and documents. The network showcase meeting will publicise the network outputs to a wider audience.
Supporting Researcher Engagement: The network will provide a series of opportunities for researchers to develop their technical skills and knowledge.
Full details are given in the separate Pathways to Impact Statement
Organisations
- University of Surrey (Collaboration, Lead Research Organisation)
- University of Michigan (Collaboration)
- Department of Defense (Collaboration)
- National Physical Laboratory (Collaboration)
- National Nuclear Laboratory (Collaboration)
- Penn State University (Collaboration)
- National Nuclear Security Administration (Collaboration)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Collaboration)
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency (Collaboration)
- QUEEN MARY UNIVERSITY OF LONDON (Collaboration)
- University of California, Berkeley (Collaboration)
- Brookhaven National Laboratory (Collaboration)
- University of Sheffield (Collaboration)
- Heriot-Watt University (Collaboration)
- Colorado School of Mines (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL (Collaboration)
- University of Bristol (Collaboration)
- Georgia Institute of Technology (Collaboration)
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (Collaboration)
- University College London (Collaboration)
- University of Manchester (Collaboration)
- Lancaster University (Collaboration)
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Collaboration)
- U.S. Department of Energy (Collaboration)
- University of Nevada (Collaboration)
- Florida International University (FIU) (Collaboration)
- Lablogic Systems (Collaboration)
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (Collaboration)
- Atomic Weapons Establishment (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF YORK (Collaboration)
- KING'S COLLEGE LONDON (Collaboration)
People |
ORCID iD |
| Paul Sellin (Principal Investigator) |
Publications
Williams R.
(2022)
The Inverse Collinator - Improving Signal Intensity for Source Localisation
Ward K.
(2023)
Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data
Vozdecky L.
(2023)
A Raspberry Pi based multi-channel data acquisition system
T. Qi Gao
(2023)
New method of thermal neutrons imaging using a fast optical camera
Ridings B,
(2022)
Causal Inference for Radiation Detection
Murray N
(2021)
Application of AI and ML to Distributed Detector Networks
Murphy C.
(2022)
Neutron and X-ray imaging in extreme environments
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ST/S005684/1 | 31/07/2019 | 30/03/2025 | |||
| 2620806 | Studentship | ST/S005684/1 | 30/09/2020 | 31/03/2024 | Euan Connolly |
| 2576737 | Studentship | ST/S005684/1 | 26/10/2020 | 24/07/2024 | James Greer |
| 2623521 | Studentship | ST/S005684/1 | 26/09/2021 | 26/03/2025 | Stephen Kearney |
| 2620821 | Studentship | ST/S005684/1 | 30/09/2021 | 24/05/2025 | Sam Fearn |
| 2623369 | Studentship | ST/S005684/1 | 30/09/2021 | 30/03/2025 | Aled Horner |
| 2656890 | Studentship | ST/S005684/1 | 30/09/2021 | 31/03/2025 | David Bennett |
| Description | NuSec Network + 2020 Phd Studentships |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Developed a Phd award scheme including guidance, application form, selection criteria, applicants selection and drafted contractual agreements with each University. |
| Collaborator Contribution | At least a 50% financial contribution from Partners for each Studentship :- 1. Bristol PhD Studentship - Developing the next-generation shipping container scanning system Partners include Prof. Tom Scott & Dr Peter Martin (Bristol) and John Burns (AWE) AWE will loan a significant number of Kromek Ltd. D3S detector modules to PhD Supervisor is estimated to be worth £20,000. AWE's will also provide the security vetting and clearance (SC or DV) of the Phd student to enable them to conduct research and technology trials at their Aldermaston site . The student will also gain operational experience with the AWE NTR team and their broader portfolio of projects. This in kind support is est to be worth £15,000 AWE may offer other in kind support depending upon the evolving outcomes of the work. 2. Sheffield Phd Studentship - Development of mixed field radiation detection techniques for oil and gas well logging. Partners include - Lee Thompson (LT) : PI, Experimental Supervision ; Patrick Stowell (PS): Simulations & Machine Learning Algorithm Supervision ; Tom Deakin (TD): Industrial Product Development Supervision University of Sheffield & LabLogic Ltd are making a total financial contribution of £41,337 University of Sheffield will provide research support, equipment, scientific knowledge, commercialisation, R&D project management training for the Phd student . Research supervision = 2 hours/week on the project = ~£12.5k over the duration of the project) and research facilities = ~£5k. Lab logic will loan instrumentation including He-3 based detectors, etc. (~£20k) and allow PhD student use of their research facilities. 3. UCL Phd Studentship Larger area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials Partners include - UCL Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (55% £51,675), UCL Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (Dr R Moss, Prof Andrew Nisbetr), Universe of Surrey Physics (Prof P Sellin) and the UCL Institute of Materials Discovery (IMD, Prof K-L Choy). Surrey will provide free access to equipment its characterisation laboratories. The effort at Surrey will mainly be on understanding the physical properties of perovskite materials such as band gap characterisation, charge carrier mobility and grain structure and some measurements on neutron detector response using an AmBe source. Surrey will mainly be on understanding the physical properties of perovskite materials such as band gap characterisation, charge carrier mobility and grain structure and some measurements on neutron detector response using an AmBe source. At UCL the student will concentrate on developing detector devices and characterising their response to X-rays using the facilities available (X-ray generators, shielded rooms and data acquisition electronics). The student will have access to the IMD laboratories and they will be trained in the techniques to make perovskite materials, process the detectors and apply metallised contacts to the surfaces. Detector construction will be completed at the London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN). The students will be able to join the LCN which has essential equipment and expertise such as wire bonding. |
| Impact | Planned Phd Outputs will involve a multidisciplinary approach. 1. Bristol Phd Studentship Planned Output - fully spectroscopic and tomographic scanning system utilising the ports existing overhead crane infrastructure combined with gamma detectors to produce a more efficient and accurate scanning system. Multidisciplinary Collaboration - detector, electronics and computational technologies. 2. Sheffield Phd Studentship Planned Output - developing low-cost mixed field neutron/gamma detection technologies be incorporated into detectors configured for deployment in boreholes. Multidisciplinary Collaboration -geophysics, environmental physics, particle physics, 3. UCL Studentship - Develop and test large area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | NuSec Network + 2020 Phd Studentships |
| Organisation | Lablogic Systems |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Developed a Phd award scheme including guidance, application form, selection criteria, applicants selection and drafted contractual agreements with each University. |
| Collaborator Contribution | At least a 50% financial contribution from Partners for each Studentship :- 1. Bristol PhD Studentship - Developing the next-generation shipping container scanning system Partners include Prof. Tom Scott & Dr Peter Martin (Bristol) and John Burns (AWE) AWE will loan a significant number of Kromek Ltd. D3S detector modules to PhD Supervisor is estimated to be worth £20,000. AWE's will also provide the security vetting and clearance (SC or DV) of the Phd student to enable them to conduct research and technology trials at their Aldermaston site . The student will also gain operational experience with the AWE NTR team and their broader portfolio of projects. This in kind support is est to be worth £15,000 AWE may offer other in kind support depending upon the evolving outcomes of the work. 2. Sheffield Phd Studentship - Development of mixed field radiation detection techniques for oil and gas well logging. Partners include - Lee Thompson (LT) : PI, Experimental Supervision ; Patrick Stowell (PS): Simulations & Machine Learning Algorithm Supervision ; Tom Deakin (TD): Industrial Product Development Supervision University of Sheffield & LabLogic Ltd are making a total financial contribution of £41,337 University of Sheffield will provide research support, equipment, scientific knowledge, commercialisation, R&D project management training for the Phd student . Research supervision = 2 hours/week on the project = ~£12.5k over the duration of the project) and research facilities = ~£5k. Lab logic will loan instrumentation including He-3 based detectors, etc. (~£20k) and allow PhD student use of their research facilities. 3. UCL Phd Studentship Larger area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials Partners include - UCL Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (55% £51,675), UCL Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (Dr R Moss, Prof Andrew Nisbetr), Universe of Surrey Physics (Prof P Sellin) and the UCL Institute of Materials Discovery (IMD, Prof K-L Choy). Surrey will provide free access to equipment its characterisation laboratories. The effort at Surrey will mainly be on understanding the physical properties of perovskite materials such as band gap characterisation, charge carrier mobility and grain structure and some measurements on neutron detector response using an AmBe source. Surrey will mainly be on understanding the physical properties of perovskite materials such as band gap characterisation, charge carrier mobility and grain structure and some measurements on neutron detector response using an AmBe source. At UCL the student will concentrate on developing detector devices and characterising their response to X-rays using the facilities available (X-ray generators, shielded rooms and data acquisition electronics). The student will have access to the IMD laboratories and they will be trained in the techniques to make perovskite materials, process the detectors and apply metallised contacts to the surfaces. Detector construction will be completed at the London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN). The students will be able to join the LCN which has essential equipment and expertise such as wire bonding. |
| Impact | Planned Phd Outputs will involve a multidisciplinary approach. 1. Bristol Phd Studentship Planned Output - fully spectroscopic and tomographic scanning system utilising the ports existing overhead crane infrastructure combined with gamma detectors to produce a more efficient and accurate scanning system. Multidisciplinary Collaboration - detector, electronics and computational technologies. 2. Sheffield Phd Studentship Planned Output - developing low-cost mixed field neutron/gamma detection technologies be incorporated into detectors configured for deployment in boreholes. Multidisciplinary Collaboration -geophysics, environmental physics, particle physics, 3. UCL Studentship - Develop and test large area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | NuSec Network + 2020 Phd Studentships |
| Organisation | University College London |
| Department | Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Developed a Phd award scheme including guidance, application form, selection criteria, applicants selection and drafted contractual agreements with each University. |
| Collaborator Contribution | At least a 50% financial contribution from Partners for each Studentship :- 1. Bristol PhD Studentship - Developing the next-generation shipping container scanning system Partners include Prof. Tom Scott & Dr Peter Martin (Bristol) and John Burns (AWE) AWE will loan a significant number of Kromek Ltd. D3S detector modules to PhD Supervisor is estimated to be worth £20,000. AWE's will also provide the security vetting and clearance (SC or DV) of the Phd student to enable them to conduct research and technology trials at their Aldermaston site . The student will also gain operational experience with the AWE NTR team and their broader portfolio of projects. This in kind support is est to be worth £15,000 AWE may offer other in kind support depending upon the evolving outcomes of the work. 2. Sheffield Phd Studentship - Development of mixed field radiation detection techniques for oil and gas well logging. Partners include - Lee Thompson (LT) : PI, Experimental Supervision ; Patrick Stowell (PS): Simulations & Machine Learning Algorithm Supervision ; Tom Deakin (TD): Industrial Product Development Supervision University of Sheffield & LabLogic Ltd are making a total financial contribution of £41,337 University of Sheffield will provide research support, equipment, scientific knowledge, commercialisation, R&D project management training for the Phd student . Research supervision = 2 hours/week on the project = ~£12.5k over the duration of the project) and research facilities = ~£5k. Lab logic will loan instrumentation including He-3 based detectors, etc. (~£20k) and allow PhD student use of their research facilities. 3. UCL Phd Studentship Larger area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials Partners include - UCL Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (55% £51,675), UCL Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (Dr R Moss, Prof Andrew Nisbetr), Universe of Surrey Physics (Prof P Sellin) and the UCL Institute of Materials Discovery (IMD, Prof K-L Choy). Surrey will provide free access to equipment its characterisation laboratories. The effort at Surrey will mainly be on understanding the physical properties of perovskite materials such as band gap characterisation, charge carrier mobility and grain structure and some measurements on neutron detector response using an AmBe source. Surrey will mainly be on understanding the physical properties of perovskite materials such as band gap characterisation, charge carrier mobility and grain structure and some measurements on neutron detector response using an AmBe source. At UCL the student will concentrate on developing detector devices and characterising their response to X-rays using the facilities available (X-ray generators, shielded rooms and data acquisition electronics). The student will have access to the IMD laboratories and they will be trained in the techniques to make perovskite materials, process the detectors and apply metallised contacts to the surfaces. Detector construction will be completed at the London Centre for Nanotechnology (LCN). The students will be able to join the LCN which has essential equipment and expertise such as wire bonding. |
| Impact | Planned Phd Outputs will involve a multidisciplinary approach. 1. Bristol Phd Studentship Planned Output - fully spectroscopic and tomographic scanning system utilising the ports existing overhead crane infrastructure combined with gamma detectors to produce a more efficient and accurate scanning system. Multidisciplinary Collaboration - detector, electronics and computational technologies. 2. Sheffield Phd Studentship Planned Output - developing low-cost mixed field neutron/gamma detection technologies be incorporated into detectors configured for deployment in boreholes. Multidisciplinary Collaboration -geophysics, environmental physics, particle physics, 3. UCL Studentship - Develop and test large area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials |
| Start Year | 2020 |
| Description | NuSec Network + 2021 Phd Studentships |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network have revised their 2019 Phd award scheme documentation and published new guidance in 2020 on its application and assessment procedures. They have also undertaken an assessment of 2020 and 2021 applications in partnership with the NuSec Network Management Group representatives (avoiding conflict of interests) and have selected 3 universities for an award and made contractual arrangements with each of them to enable for 3 Students to start in October 2021. |
| Collaborator Contribution | At least a 50% cash contribution and in kind contributions from Industrial Partners for each Studentship University of Glasgow - Development of compact neutron detectors using next-generation scintillator materials , supervisor Dr Bjoern Seitz Bevan, Dr David Mahon (STFC Innovation Fellow), Rick Gray (RSE Enterprise Fellow) and Frank Thomson,. The AWE (Dr Jon Burns and Chris Allwork) will contribute £40,151 Cash and £35,000 In Kind. They will provide a strong non-academic supervisory team with the relevant knowledge and experience to support this project. AWE will provide access to AWE-owned equipment, AWE laboratories and testing space, offer 1-1 guidance & mentoring and also meet the full cost of any security vetting required for accessing classified materials. AWE's advanced computational and experimental capabilities will support the development and testing of new and novel technologies. Overall AWE will provide the knowledge of the end user for the researched technologies and extensive experimental validation. Queen Mary College University of London - Evaluating the suitability of Organic Semiconductor Detectors for Nuclear Security, supervised by Professor Adrian Bevan and Dr Theo Kreouzis AWE will contribute £42,711 Cash and £15,000 in kind. AWE (Dr Jon Burns and Chris Allwork) will undertake detailed periodic reviews of the research and oversee the industrial placement. AWE will provide commercial expertise and access to a unique test facility that is essential for the success of this research project. Dr Burns will oversee the industrial placement work to develop the student's understanding of real-world applications of technology being developed and participate in team meetings onsite QMUL In-kind contributions include: access to 10B isotope enriched material from DDG stocks and access to Materials Research Institute and Detector Development Group facilities, as well as being embedded in a cohort of detector development students, with PDRA and technical support. The student will receive appropriate training and background in condensed matter, detectors and particle physics and continuous academic supervision throughout the research. University of Bristol - Real time identification and tracking of radioactive materials carried by humans Professor Tom Scott and Dr Peter Martin Dept of Physics and Interface Analysis Centre (IAC) will supervise and monitor the PhD Student. IAC fortnightly Environment Detection Forensics Group meetings will examine progress and results presented by the student. Annual Progress Monitoring System involves two independent academics knowledgeable on the subject area who will assess work completed by the student each academic year. They will provide additional guidance to the student, outline areas for improvement and define further outcomes/objectives for the forthcoming year. Bristol University will provide additional financial support for training and conference visits and journal publication costs. AWE - £42,337 Cash and £20K In kind Contributions Security Vetting and clearance, Student mentoring and direct supervision whilst undertaking research and technology trials at AWE Aldermaston site. UCL - Larger area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials |
| Impact | Planned outputs - University of Glasgow - Development of compact neutron detectors using next-generation scintillator materials Research, development and testing of a compact easy-to-use scintillator-based detector to improve the state-of-the-art in neutron detection for applications in nuclear security. Development of compact, lightweight and low-powered systems for robotic deployment to remove operators from harm. These miniaturised technologies will or exceed the performance of incumbent systems whilst simplifying operation and removing the need for cooling. The research will increase operator safety and drive regulatory health and safety improvements. Multi-disciplines - computer coding, electronics, analytics, electronics and industrial applications. Queen Mary College University of London - Evaluating the suitability of Organic Semiconductor Detectors for Nuclear Security Technology that can be scaled up to large areas for portal detectors for port of entry for scanning of cargo shipments, as well as smaller devices for portable security and handheld devices for laboratory use. They will also engage with a number of potential commercial partners to bring this technology to market. Multidisciplines - computer coding, electronics and commercial technology development. University of Bristol - Real time identification and tracking of radioactive materials carried by humans The student will design and implement a radioactive source tracking system that will be able to identify , track and spectroscopically analyse concealed radioactive materials in complex crowded environments e.g. ports, arenas, airports, transport nodes. Multi-disciplines - Computer Programming, Coding, electronics, software development, data analysis and technology development. UCL - Larger area semiconductor detectors based on novel inorganic polycrystalline perovskite materials The Student will develop new lower cost nuclear material detector technology with a higher degree of accuracy and faster scanning rates. Multidisciplinary Collaborations - Medical Physics, Biomedical Engineering, Material development and nanotechnology. UCL Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering Contribution £51,675 toward Fees, Stipends, Training and materials. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | NuSec Science Network + Management Group |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | As PI I have chaired the network's Management Group, which meets twice a year for 3 - 4 hrs depending on the business. |
| Collaborator Contribution | As members of the Management Group, one academic from each partner institute attends the Management Group meetings, plus other network events, estimated at 6 person days per year. |
| Impact | Agreed guidance for application and funding decisions on Pilot Projects, Personal Development, Phd Studentship and NNSA US & UK Collaboration Awards. Advice on relevant speakers and program of technical workshops. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | NuSec Science Network + Management Group |
| Organisation | National Nuclear Laboratory |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | As PI I have chaired the network's Management Group, which meets twice a year for 3 - 4 hrs depending on the business. |
| Collaborator Contribution | As members of the Management Group, one academic from each partner institute attends the Management Group meetings, plus other network events, estimated at 6 person days per year. |
| Impact | Agreed guidance for application and funding decisions on Pilot Projects, Personal Development, Phd Studentship and NNSA US & UK Collaboration Awards. Advice on relevant speakers and program of technical workshops. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | NuSec Science Network + Management Group |
| Organisation | University of Liverpool |
| Department | Department of Physics |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | As PI I have chaired the network's Management Group, which meets twice a year for 3 - 4 hrs depending on the business. |
| Collaborator Contribution | As members of the Management Group, one academic from each partner institute attends the Management Group meetings, plus other network events, estimated at 6 person days per year. |
| Impact | Agreed guidance for application and funding decisions on Pilot Projects, Personal Development, Phd Studentship and NNSA US & UK Collaboration Awards. Advice on relevant speakers and program of technical workshops. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | NuSec Science Network + Management Group |
| Organisation | University of Manchester |
| Department | School of Physics and Astronomy Manchester |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | As PI I have chaired the network's Management Group, which meets twice a year for 3 - 4 hrs depending on the business. |
| Collaborator Contribution | As members of the Management Group, one academic from each partner institute attends the Management Group meetings, plus other network events, estimated at 6 person days per year. |
| Impact | Agreed guidance for application and funding decisions on Pilot Projects, Personal Development, Phd Studentship and NNSA US & UK Collaboration Awards. Advice on relevant speakers and program of technical workshops. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | NuSec Science Network + Management Group |
| Organisation | University of Sheffield |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | As PI I have chaired the network's Management Group, which meets twice a year for 3 - 4 hrs depending on the business. |
| Collaborator Contribution | As members of the Management Group, one academic from each partner institute attends the Management Group meetings, plus other network events, estimated at 6 person days per year. |
| Impact | Agreed guidance for application and funding decisions on Pilot Projects, Personal Development, Phd Studentship and NNSA US & UK Collaboration Awards. Advice on relevant speakers and program of technical workshops. |
| Start Year | 2019 |
| Description | NuSec Summer 2022 Pilot Projects |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The Nuclear Security Science network administers, manages and promotes this scheme, using funding provided to the network by AWE . The NuSec Network runs an annual competition usually for up to 5 summer pilot projects amongst network members in academia and industry. The scheme is run in partnership with AWE who provide the core project funding. The network takes the lead role in promoting the competition; drafting & distributing application forms and guidance; collating applications for assessment; informing applicants of decisions; issuing contractual paperwork; processing payments and receiving final summary report and poster presentations. In 2022 the NuSec network also funded a further 2 pilot projects, so in total there were 7 Summer pilot projects managed by the NuSec Network. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE provided £24,000 to NuSec to fund 5 summer research projects. The Nuclear Security Science network End User Panel (AWE & Stakeholders from government departments and Agencies) develop assessment criteria and select the projects for funding. The End User panel also provide guidance and support to successful applicants during the research period for example in accessing appropriate information and equipment. |
| Impact | In 2022 Seven awards were made ~ £4,000 to 6 Universities for early stage research on topics that could enhance the field of nuclear security. These included University of Bristol -The Inverse Collinator - Improving Signal Intensity for Source Localisation ;Queen Mary University of London - Identifying isotopes using Machine Learning & Environmental stability of Polymer radiation detectors; University of Sheffield - Causal Inference for Radiation Detection; University of Loughborough - Gamma Ray Microcalorimeters using Superconducting Materials and Technologies; University of Liverpool - Characterisation of CZT crystals for improved position resolution and defect correction'; Herriott Watt University - Real-time radiation detection in virtual environments . Aspects of these projects are being taken forward by AWE as part of their ongoing relationships with PIs and other existing projects. The University of Loughborough are recruiting a Phd Student starting in September 2023 to take forward the findings from their 2022 NuSec funded Pilot Project. The studentship will focus on High Resolution Gamma Detectors using Superconducting Materials |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | NuSec Summer 2023 Pilot Projects |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The Nuclear Security Science network administers, manages and promotes this scheme, using funding provided to the network by AWE . The NuSec Network runs an annual competition usually for up to 5 summer pilot projects amongst network members in academia and industry. The scheme is run in partnership with AWE who provide the core project funding. The network takes the lead role in promoting the competition; drafting & distributing application forms and guidance; collating applications for assessment; informing applicants of decisions; issuing contractual paperwork; processing payments and receiving final summary report and poster presentations. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE provided £15,143 to NuSec to fund 4 summer research projects. The Nuclear Security Science network End User Panel (AWE & Stakeholders from government departments and Agencies) developed assessment criteria and selected the projects for funding. The End User panel also provide guidance and support to successful applicants during the research period for example in accessing appropriate information and equipment. They also disseminate findings of the research with Government Departments and AWE colleagues and seek to develop further research with some project leads. |
| Impact | In 2023 four awards were made ~ £4,000 to 4 Universities ( different PIs & UG researchers) for early stage research on topics that could enhance the field of nuclear security. These include two projects at the university of Liverpool with The Development of Position-Sensitive LaBr3(Ce) Detectors for Compton Cameras and Background measurements at Hartlepool Nuclear Power Station to assess the viability of on-site antineutrino detection. Two projects at the university of Lancaster Advancing Helium-3 alternative Detector Technologies for Nuclear Security and Susceptibility of SD Memory Cards to Neutron Damage. Industry were also involved in some projects providing expert advice, access to & loan of research facilities and equipment. These projects will build the foundations for further research & development and funding applications. Aspects of these projects are being taken forward by AWE as part of their ongoing relationships with PIs and other existing projects. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | NuSec UK Collaboration Research |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund collaborations research between Academics, Government or Industry. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaboration activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training, and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run technical workshops so researchers can present their research results. |
| Collaborator Contribution | 4 UK NuSec Collaboration Awards were made in 2023. A University of Surrey, Summer Undergraduate Student undertook a 2-month project to investigate the correlation between the fast ( > 1 MeV) cross sections of ground state isotopes and same isotope isomers, in collaboration with AWE. Isomeric data is important for various aspects of nuclear security modelling. A University of York PDRA started a 9-month project to research Neutron Detector Development Using Novel 3He Encapsulated Foils. In collaboration with York Surface Science Laboratory and York JEOL Nano centre The aim is to produce a prototype of an innovative plasma-sputtered 3He based neutron radiation detectors for detecting thermal or moderated neutrons enabling better portability, and flexibility and sensitivity in radiation monitoring, detection, and security applications. Other applications could include environmental assays in challenging environments and legacy decommissioning work. A University of Surrey, 12-month PDRA has started to evaluate Home Office Sigma Data to provide an optimal threat response. They will assess the quality of the of the spectra (data), develop a neural network to identify isotopes and compare Surrey clustering labelled isotope identifiers with AWE isotope identifiers. The proposed output is an AI neural network isotope identification algorithm for Sigma Data which can be used to improved future data collection and analysis . The work will involve radiation, mathematical and computing expertise. A University of Sheffield 9 month PDRA has started to research a Boron Loaded Opaque Scintillator for Low-Cost Directional Neutron Sensing in collaboration with Kings College London. The PDRA will explore how advances within the neutrinos on opaque scintillators could be combined with other novel detector technologies to develop more efficient directional neutron sensors. The PDRA will spend a week at King s College London to understand how to carry out Cadmium-Quantum dot detector test. These novel Cadmium sensors will also be compared to the directional neutron sensor by the PDRA using Sheffield's in-house pulsed DT/DD neutron generator. The detection efficiency integrated over all angles will be compared to both Helium-3 and BN:ZnS detectors at Sheffield and a novel Cadmium-quantum dot-based detector developed by Kings College to understand the benefits that opaque scintillator design offers over alternative techniques. The work will involve High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Impact | The host University and Government Laboratory Researchers will fund UK Researchers to collaborate with other UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. . A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research visits; and Conferences, training, and collaboration visits. This partnership is multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from radiation, mapping, mathematics, manufacturing, computing. High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | NuSec UK Collaboration Research |
| Organisation | King's College London |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund collaborations research between Academics, Government or Industry. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaboration activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training, and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run technical workshops so researchers can present their research results. |
| Collaborator Contribution | 4 UK NuSec Collaboration Awards were made in 2023. A University of Surrey, Summer Undergraduate Student undertook a 2-month project to investigate the correlation between the fast ( > 1 MeV) cross sections of ground state isotopes and same isotope isomers, in collaboration with AWE. Isomeric data is important for various aspects of nuclear security modelling. A University of York PDRA started a 9-month project to research Neutron Detector Development Using Novel 3He Encapsulated Foils. In collaboration with York Surface Science Laboratory and York JEOL Nano centre The aim is to produce a prototype of an innovative plasma-sputtered 3He based neutron radiation detectors for detecting thermal or moderated neutrons enabling better portability, and flexibility and sensitivity in radiation monitoring, detection, and security applications. Other applications could include environmental assays in challenging environments and legacy decommissioning work. A University of Surrey, 12-month PDRA has started to evaluate Home Office Sigma Data to provide an optimal threat response. They will assess the quality of the of the spectra (data), develop a neural network to identify isotopes and compare Surrey clustering labelled isotope identifiers with AWE isotope identifiers. The proposed output is an AI neural network isotope identification algorithm for Sigma Data which can be used to improved future data collection and analysis . The work will involve radiation, mathematical and computing expertise. A University of Sheffield 9 month PDRA has started to research a Boron Loaded Opaque Scintillator for Low-Cost Directional Neutron Sensing in collaboration with Kings College London. The PDRA will explore how advances within the neutrinos on opaque scintillators could be combined with other novel detector technologies to develop more efficient directional neutron sensors. The PDRA will spend a week at King s College London to understand how to carry out Cadmium-Quantum dot detector test. These novel Cadmium sensors will also be compared to the directional neutron sensor by the PDRA using Sheffield's in-house pulsed DT/DD neutron generator. The detection efficiency integrated over all angles will be compared to both Helium-3 and BN:ZnS detectors at Sheffield and a novel Cadmium-quantum dot-based detector developed by Kings College to understand the benefits that opaque scintillator design offers over alternative techniques. The work will involve High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Impact | The host University and Government Laboratory Researchers will fund UK Researchers to collaborate with other UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. . A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research visits; and Conferences, training, and collaboration visits. This partnership is multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from radiation, mapping, mathematics, manufacturing, computing. High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | NuSec UK Collaboration Research |
| Organisation | University of Surrey |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund collaborations research between Academics, Government or Industry. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaboration activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training, and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run technical workshops so researchers can present their research results. |
| Collaborator Contribution | 4 UK NuSec Collaboration Awards were made in 2023. A University of Surrey, Summer Undergraduate Student undertook a 2-month project to investigate the correlation between the fast ( > 1 MeV) cross sections of ground state isotopes and same isotope isomers, in collaboration with AWE. Isomeric data is important for various aspects of nuclear security modelling. A University of York PDRA started a 9-month project to research Neutron Detector Development Using Novel 3He Encapsulated Foils. In collaboration with York Surface Science Laboratory and York JEOL Nano centre The aim is to produce a prototype of an innovative plasma-sputtered 3He based neutron radiation detectors for detecting thermal or moderated neutrons enabling better portability, and flexibility and sensitivity in radiation monitoring, detection, and security applications. Other applications could include environmental assays in challenging environments and legacy decommissioning work. A University of Surrey, 12-month PDRA has started to evaluate Home Office Sigma Data to provide an optimal threat response. They will assess the quality of the of the spectra (data), develop a neural network to identify isotopes and compare Surrey clustering labelled isotope identifiers with AWE isotope identifiers. The proposed output is an AI neural network isotope identification algorithm for Sigma Data which can be used to improved future data collection and analysis . The work will involve radiation, mathematical and computing expertise. A University of Sheffield 9 month PDRA has started to research a Boron Loaded Opaque Scintillator for Low-Cost Directional Neutron Sensing in collaboration with Kings College London. The PDRA will explore how advances within the neutrinos on opaque scintillators could be combined with other novel detector technologies to develop more efficient directional neutron sensors. The PDRA will spend a week at King s College London to understand how to carry out Cadmium-Quantum dot detector test. These novel Cadmium sensors will also be compared to the directional neutron sensor by the PDRA using Sheffield's in-house pulsed DT/DD neutron generator. The detection efficiency integrated over all angles will be compared to both Helium-3 and BN:ZnS detectors at Sheffield and a novel Cadmium-quantum dot-based detector developed by Kings College to understand the benefits that opaque scintillator design offers over alternative techniques. The work will involve High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Impact | The host University and Government Laboratory Researchers will fund UK Researchers to collaborate with other UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. . A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research visits; and Conferences, training, and collaboration visits. This partnership is multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from radiation, mapping, mathematics, manufacturing, computing. High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | NuSec UK Collaboration Research |
| Organisation | University of York |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund collaborations research between Academics, Government or Industry. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaboration activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training, and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run technical workshops so researchers can present their research results. |
| Collaborator Contribution | 4 UK NuSec Collaboration Awards were made in 2023. A University of Surrey, Summer Undergraduate Student undertook a 2-month project to investigate the correlation between the fast ( > 1 MeV) cross sections of ground state isotopes and same isotope isomers, in collaboration with AWE. Isomeric data is important for various aspects of nuclear security modelling. A University of York PDRA started a 9-month project to research Neutron Detector Development Using Novel 3He Encapsulated Foils. In collaboration with York Surface Science Laboratory and York JEOL Nano centre The aim is to produce a prototype of an innovative plasma-sputtered 3He based neutron radiation detectors for detecting thermal or moderated neutrons enabling better portability, and flexibility and sensitivity in radiation monitoring, detection, and security applications. Other applications could include environmental assays in challenging environments and legacy decommissioning work. A University of Surrey, 12-month PDRA has started to evaluate Home Office Sigma Data to provide an optimal threat response. They will assess the quality of the of the spectra (data), develop a neural network to identify isotopes and compare Surrey clustering labelled isotope identifiers with AWE isotope identifiers. The proposed output is an AI neural network isotope identification algorithm for Sigma Data which can be used to improved future data collection and analysis . The work will involve radiation, mathematical and computing expertise. A University of Sheffield 9 month PDRA has started to research a Boron Loaded Opaque Scintillator for Low-Cost Directional Neutron Sensing in collaboration with Kings College London. The PDRA will explore how advances within the neutrinos on opaque scintillators could be combined with other novel detector technologies to develop more efficient directional neutron sensors. The PDRA will spend a week at King s College London to understand how to carry out Cadmium-Quantum dot detector test. These novel Cadmium sensors will also be compared to the directional neutron sensor by the PDRA using Sheffield's in-house pulsed DT/DD neutron generator. The detection efficiency integrated over all angles will be compared to both Helium-3 and BN:ZnS detectors at Sheffield and a novel Cadmium-quantum dot-based detector developed by Kings College to understand the benefits that opaque scintillator design offers over alternative techniques. The work will involve High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Impact | The host University and Government Laboratory Researchers will fund UK Researchers to collaborate with other UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will be offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility, and skills training that involve both UK Academics, Government or Industry. . A range of grants are available to support UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research visits; and Conferences, training, and collaboration visits. This partnership is multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from radiation, mapping, mathematics, manufacturing, computing. High Energy Physics and Photonics expertise. |
| Start Year | 2023 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Heriot-Watt University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Lancaster University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | National Nuclear Laboratory |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | National Nuclear Laboratory |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | National Physical Laboratory |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Oak Ridge National Laboratory |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | Queen Mary University of London |
| Department | Queen Mary Innovation |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | University of Bristol |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge |
| Organisation | University of Surrey |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Network has managed the call and selection of applicants (inc. drafting guidance, application forms, terms and conditions). NuSec have organised meetings with approved applicants and set up a sharepoint site so they can download the data. NuSec will also fund ~ £3,500 per project to support the employment of an academic project researcher. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE have obtained Home Office permission to provide access to academic researchers to large scale confidential sensitive data from multi-site radiation detectors. collected during the Sigma London pilots of 2017/2018. UK and USA University Academics, Government Laboratories and Industry Staff will supervise researchers and manage 10 project groups. |
| Impact | Collaborations are multi-disciplinary and will require expertise from nuclear detection science, mathematics, computers science to develop machine learning models and AI algorithms. Our Sigma Data Challenge is a pilot project for academic researchers to access and analyse large gamma ray spectra data sets collected from multi-site radiation detectors in London during 2017/2018. 10 research groups from UK & USA Universities as well as Government Laboratories responded to this Challenge call. During 2022 - 2023 they have explored and analysed the Sigma Data using a variety of methods, including algorithms and machine learning models to identify threatening radioactive material/isotopes, and to assess the distribution and quality of the short duration spectra data from mobile and fixed radiation sensors. Four Sigma projects reported on their results at the NuSec Technical Workshop 9th Oct 2023. These included Poisson-FOCuS on SIGMA data (University of Lancaster); Enhancing Nuclear Security: Leveraging Non-Negative Matrix Factorization for High Sensitivity Threat Detection with Small Volume Gamma Detector (University Of Bristol) ; Spectroscopic Anomaly Detection and Isotope Identification using Non-negative Matrix Factorization Application to AWE SIGMA Data (Lawrence Berkeley National laboratory) and Applying Matrix Factorisation methods to improve specificity of fast anomaly detection algorithm ( University of Lancaster). Following the Challenge, AWE have drafted a letter of support to Lancaster University stating that Poisson-FOCuS research is of relevance to their work. US partners LLNL and LLBL are also undertaking further template matching research. NuSec also agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to undertake further evaluation of the data quality using a neural network. AWE are providing technical support for their investigations of roadside detectors. Disciplines involved in this challenge include computational modelling and mathematics. |
| Start Year | 2022 |
| Description | Summer 2021 Nuclear Security Summer Pilot Projects |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | The Nuclear Security Science network administers, manages and promotes this scheme, using funding provided to the network by AWE . The NuSec Network runs an annual competition for summer pilot projects amongst network members in academia and industry. The scheme is run in partnership with AWE who provide the core project funding. The network takes the lead role in promoting the competition; drafting & distributing application forms and guidance; collating applications for assessment; informing applicants of decisions; issuing contractual paperwork; processing payments and receiving final summary report and poster presentations. |
| Collaborator Contribution | AWE provided £24,000 to NuSec to fund 5 summer research projects. The Nuclear Security Science network End User Panel (AWE & Stakeholders from government departments and Agencies) develop assessment criteria and select the projects for funding. The End User panel also provide guidance and support to successful applicants during the research period for example in accessing appropriate information and equipment. |
| Impact | In 2021 three awards were made ~ £4,000 to three Universities for early stage research on topics that could enhance the field of nuclear security. These included Kings College London, Developing Multifunctional Quantum Dot-based Neutrino Fission Reactor Detector; University of Bristol Application of AI and ML to Distributed Detector Networks and University of Surrey, Fuzzy Logic Scintillator Selection Tool. Research was undertaken in the summer by undergraduates and supervised by senior Academics. Industry was also involved in a couple of projects through the loan of research facilities and equipment; Recipients each wrote a Summary report for the NUSEC End User Panel and presented a poster of their project at NuSec Network Technical event, 3rd November 2021. Aspects of these projects are being taken forward by AWE as part of their ongoing relationships with the PI and other existing projects. Projects have also successfully obtained additional funding for further research applications. In 2022, Kings College London were successful in obtaining a further NuSec Collaboration award to undertake collaborative research with and at the University of Michigan on Water-based quantum dots for nuclear detection. IN 2023, using findings from their earlier research Kings college have partnered with the University of Sheffield to undertake joint research on a new Boron Loaded Opaque Scintillator, again funded by NuSec. In 2023, NuSec agreed to fund a PDRA at Surrey University to use Fuzzy Logic Tool to Evaluate Home Office Sigma Data. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Brookhaven National Laboratory |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Colorado School of Mines |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Defense Threat Reduction Agency |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Department of Defense |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Florida International University (FIU) |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Georgia Institute of Technology |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory |
| Department | National Ignition Facility |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Massachusetts Institute of Technology |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | National Nuclear Security Administration |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | Penn State University |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | U.S. Department of Energy |
| Department | Pacific Northwest National Laboratory |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | University of California, Berkeley |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | University of Michigan |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | University of Nevada |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | UK-US Academic Network in Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills |
| Organisation | University of Nevada |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | The NuSec Science Network will fund UK Academic or Government Laboratory Researchers for collaborative work with US researchers who are part of the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances. A range of grants are available to support UK - US undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. They include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 12 months); Research Visits; and Conferences, Training and collaboration visits. Grant awards will be offered at up 80% of the total project costs. The NuSec Science Network will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications biannually and help run workshops in collaboration with NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances to promote and present research findings. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The NNSA ETI, MTV and NSSC consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will fund US Researchers to collaborate with UK Academic and Government Laboratory Researchers on nuclear security and non-proliferation topics. Priority topics areas include Machine learning and big data challenges ; Advanced detection methods for nuclear fuel cycle monitoring; Radiation Detection, including detector development & digital pulse processing, and new materials for radiation detectors; Novel imaging techniques, including compact gamma and neutron imaging systems; cosmic ray muon imaging of large objects, and real-time CT imaging methods; Robotics and remote inspection technologies and Additive Manufacturing for non-proliferation technologies. Financial support will offered for a range of activities including research, engagement, mobility and skills training that involve both UK and US researchers in the NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia . A range of grants are available to support US - UK undergraduate, post-doctoral and senior academic collaborative activities. These include:- Short term postdoctoral research projects (up to 2months); Research visits; and Conferences, training and collaboration visits. The NNSA ETI, NSSC and MTV consortia and DoD/DTRA University Research Alliances will produce guidance for applicants, assess applications and help run workshops in collaboration with the NuSec Science Network to promote and present research findings. They will also provide research guidance, in house expertise and loans of equipment and materials. |
| Impact | 19 UK - US NuSec Collaboration Awards have been made to date since 2021. Our travel awards have enabled UK researchers to visit the US to deliver face-to-face presentations of their research findings. Conferences and meetings provide an opportunity to share experiences, discuss solutions to technical challenges and agree next steps for research projects. . Researchers can also demonstrate and refine new developing detection technologies to potential future end users in the US and UK. A Travel Award enabled a University of Oxford Researcher to travel to the US and deliver a face-to-face presentation of High Repetition Data Research to an international audience at the 63rd Annual Meeting of the APS Division of Plasma Physics, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 8th-12th November 2021. The UK Researcher also had in person discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory. These face-to-face meetings provided an opportunity to share and discuss current ideas, raise awareness of approaches and issues that other international researchers had not yet considered. Discussions with Laurence Livermore Laboratory will continue to focus on exploring potential collaborative research projects that may be eligible for funding from NuSec and other funding bodies. In 2022, a University of Cambridge PDRA travelled to the University of California Berkeley (UCB) and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) to undertake Pulsed Neutron-Gamma Die Away (PNGDA) measurements on scattered Chlorine used in Fast Reactors. In 2023 a PDRA from Kings College travelled to the University of Michigan to discuss & agree actions on next-generation nuclear reactor neutrino detectors (using water-based quantum dots). In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA has travelled to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to discuss future for UK-US Collaborations in Micro-Particle Nuclear Forensics. In 2024 a travel award will enable a University of Glasgow researcher to Test An Organic Scintillator EJ-276, and an Inorganic Scintillator CLLBC, on a Detector Prototype using both the neutron generators (D-D and D-T) and alternative radioisotope neutron sources in a University of Michigan Neutron Science Laboratory. Joint NuSec PDRA and Travel Awards have also supported several UK- US collaborative novel research projects from 3- 12 months. Visits to US laboratories allow researchers to obtain a first-hand insight of US detection hardware, data collection & management, and analytical methods. Working collaboratively with other US experts has improved researcher understanding of their results, and developed personal confidences to try alternative approaches. In 2022, a University of Surrey PDRA worked with Georgia Tech University to develop prototype perovskite scintillators for use in security applications such as X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. The Surrey PDRA travelled to Georgia Tech to undertake proton beam measurements of perovskite scintillators. In 2022. a University of Glasgow PDRA worked with the Colorado School of Mines Nuclear Science & Engineering Department to develop a Geant 4 simulation framework to optimize a multimodal detector for tomographic imaging of used nuclear fuel casks. The PDRA also travelled to the US to gain a firsthand insight about the multimodal tomography imaging system hardware, the limitation and required mitigation measures. The PDRA will also demonstrate the Geant 4 simulation framework to its future end user. The US research visit will be used to further improve the development of the Geant 4 simulation framework. In 2022, Two part time University of Bristol PDRAs worked with the University of California Berkeley to develop a novel portable, field-deployable, and high-speed gamma-ray imaging and spectroscopy platform to surpass the current limitations of 'traditional' coded-mask and Compton camera-based systems. In 2023, a University of York PDRA collaborated with the University of Michigan, Laurence Livermore and Los Alamos Labs over 3 months to research Neutron and X-ray imaging techniques and modelling in extreme environments. During 2022 - 2023, a University of Manchester PDRA collaborated with Brookhaven National Laboratory on Novel Imaging techniques for thermal and slow neutrons using a single photon fast optical camera. The camera could serve as a novel and portable neutron imaging platform, as well as real-time nuclear material detection and monitoring with different light emitting neutron detection media . They also conducted a feasibility study with 3D printed scintillators. In 2024. a new PDRA will be funded to investigate Neutron detection using in house 3D printed plastic scintillators and a fast Timepix3 optical camera again in partnership with Brookhaven National Laboratory. In 2023, a University of Bristol PDRA collaborated with Pacific Northwest National Laboratory on 'Big-Data' Visualisation and Presentation in Data-Rich Nuclear Security Scenarios, big-data analytics, and detection science projects to improve data representation and augmented decision-making methods . In 2023, a University of Bristol Research team ( 5 people) travelled to Arizona to map legacy Uranium mines with University of Nevada and Govt. Dept. of Energy NISA. This research visit results have helped to refine airborne radiometric mapping techniques and further understanding in the effect of topography. It also enhanced US & UK capabilities through training and sharing of equipment. Following the success of the 2023 Another Univeristy of Bristol team will return to Arizona in 2024 to further develop accuracy for dose determination and isotope discrimination by integrating Advanced Solid State 3D scanning LiDAR's into a drone radiation mapping UAV payload. They will work in collaboration with Florida International University, The University of Nevada and the DoE's Airbourne Radiometric team In 2023, a University of Surrey PDRA was funded for 12 mths to with the Applied Radiation Laboratory at Penn State University to research Large area CsPbBr3 Perovskite detectors for Nuclear Security Applications. in 2024, The PDRA was given a further award for 12 mths to investigate Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Scintillators again with Penn State University, using their irradiation facilities and nuclear science resources. This research is intended to develop new technologies for detectors used in border control vehicle inspections. In 2024, Imperial College, London were awarded a research travel grant to enable them to travel to the National Ignition facility at Laurence Livermore Nuclear Laboratory to Investigate Neutron Capture of a nuclear reaction in a Plasma Environment. The research involves nuclear physics, plasma physics and radiochemistry graduates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and supports their training. In 2024, Univeristy of Liverpool were awarded a PDRA research and travel grant to support The Development of Intelligent Object Detection and Semantic Segmentation for Maximum Likelihood Estimation in Complex Radioactive Environment in collaboration with University of Berkeley California. The research is intended to drive advancements in multi-sensor systems and associated data analytics concepts. Specifically, the proposed work in object detection and sematic segmentation to improve object classification would complement ongoing research in utilizing the Localization and Mapping Platform LAMP which was developed in Berkeley over the last years. The research will provide important information about material and objects in the environment which interfere with the radiation fields enhancing the ability to estimate quantities and associated uncertainties related to nuclear materials and radiological contamination substantially. |
| Start Year | 2021 |
| Description | Fuzzy Logic Scintillator Selection Tool Poster Presentation, International Conference of Physics Students (ICPS) Mexico, 1st - 4th August 2022 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Undergraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Alexia Beale gave poster presentation on a NuSec funded research pilot project that she had work on in Summer 2021. The presentation generated lots of questions and further discussion .... |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.iaps.info/events/icps/icps-2020-in-mexico/ |
| Description | NuSec Network Personal Development Grants |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | TThe Nuclear Security Network Personal Development Grant award scheme is aimed at strengthening the research and innovation capacity of Nuclear Security Scientists and developing new collaborations between researchers and partner organisations. This could be by attending a Nuclear Security Science Related Research Conference, Training Course, or an Industrial Placement within or outside of the UK. Awards of up to £1-2,000 are available to ECRs though 50% matched funding is normally required. Applications are accepted by throughout the year and applicants are informed of a decision within 2 - 4 weeks of submission. Our awards have/will help to support discussions between European and International researchers who can provide helpful insights or advise on other relevant research fields. They also provide an opportunity for researchers to build their professional networks with other instrumentation developers, obtain invaluable presentation and leadership skills and explore future potential career opportunities. To date, we have made 10 awards to PhD, PDRAs, Post Graduate students at UK Universities for a total project value of £12,624 . Activities include - Support attendance and collaborations at the IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium and Medical Imaging Conference (MIC), Manchester, 26th October - 2nd November 2019 and virtual event 16th October - 23rd October 2021 . Three ECRs gave poster presentations on Muon Tomography Algorithms; A Novel Approach to Determining the Distance from a Source with a Single Measurement and no Prior Knowledge of Source Activity and Characterisation of GS20 using epithermal neutrons and high energy gamma rays in borehole logging: A simulation approach. They have also attended other specialist workshops during this event. Attending this event has enabled the ECRs to contact other academic and industrial researchers who are working on similar topics and understand current research trends. Discussions and networking with other researchers and development specialists have helped each ECR to understand and overcome some of their technical research challenges and will help influence the direction of their future research. Support attendance and collaboration at the Generation 4 and Small Reactors International Conference 3rd - 6th October 2022. The PDRA presented a conference paper on the Transport Security Considerations for Small, Advanced and Transportable Reactors. Networking with Industry and Government attendees has informed the development of their future research topics. Support the presentation of Scintillator materials poster Synthesis and Characterisation of Mixed-Cation Double Perovskite Scintillators at the Defence Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Penn State University 9-13th July 2022 and at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory 15th July 2022. PDRA left the visit with renewed confidence in my work, and with ideas on next steps and how to implement improvements on the production processes. Improved Understanding of the surrounding research topics e.g., basics of growing materials, the analytical systems used to process the data they produce and the eventual devices these materials are intended to replace/be used alongside. Support an undergraduate research project Enhanced measurement capability for traceable determination of the origins of nuclear materials 1st July -30th September 2022. Grant supported travel to research partners AWE, NMI, and the University of Surrey. Support a UCL researcher to attend and present A new approach to directional radiation detection using a Monte Carlo based study at the RAD11 conference International Conference on Radiation Natural Science, Medicine, Engineering Technology and Ecology Conference 19-23 June 2023, Montenegro. Support a UCL and Sheffield ECRs to attend to present at the IEEE Nuclear Science Symposium (NSS), 4-11 November 2023, Vancouver, Canada on Novel borehole detectors for oil and gas formation research and the Development of novel CsPbBr3-polymer composites for radiation detection. Support an ECR at Strathclyde Univeristy to develop and lead field based Hyperspectral Imaging (HIS) experiments for other researchers. They supervised researchers during experiments, analysis and presentation of results. The project provided an opportunity for the researcher to develop their management and contract skills, setting strategic steps for the experiments, leading discussions with others and supervising deliverables. A report was produced for the National Nuclear laboratory and the ECR is feeling more confident at managing other future partnership projects. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2019 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/personal-developments-grants |
| Description | NuSec Technical Lunchtime Seminar 28th July 2021 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Our inaugural lunchtime Technical Seminar took place on line. Two talks were given by current PhD Students on, X-ray Luminescence of CuInS/ZnS Quantum Dot Loaded Plastic Scintillators, Callum Grove, University of Surrey and Mathematical and Computational Models for Simulating Transient Nuclear Criticality Excursions within Fissile Powder Systems with Fluid Ingress, Greg Jones, Imperial College London. Each presenter spoke for around 20 minutes and stimulated questions and discussion. Recordings of the live presentations and pdfs of presentations were made publicly available via the NuSec website. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/nusec-lunchtime-seminar-xxx |
| Description | NuSec Technical Workshop, 11th October 2022 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | The workshop provided an opportunity to hear and discuss the latest research findings from NuSec funded, detection method and technology projects. We also launched calls for NuSec 2023 UK-US Collaboration Grants and Sigma Data Challenge applications. Presentations were given from the Home office & AWE staff, our 6 NuSec funded PhD Students, 4 UK-US Collaboration Grants PDRAs and 7 Summer 2022 Pilot Project Students. In total there were 22 presenters, 65 people in attendance (in person and on line) The workshop was co-located at the IoP with the NuFor: Nuclear Forensics Conference, Institute of Physics London, 11-13 October 2022 so that those attending the NuSec workshop could also attend the longer NuFor Conference. NuSec research posters were displayed throughout both events |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/11th-october-nusec-technical-woekshop |
| Description | NuSec Technical Workshop, 3rd November 2021 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | This was a hybrid workshop. Presenters attended in person and other delegates joined on line via Zoom. Five short presentations were given by NuSec funded PhD & summer pilot projects students from the Universities of Bristol, Sheffield, Kings college London and Surrey on the following topics; - next-generation shipping container scanning system; mixed field radiation detection techniques for oil and gas well logging; artificial intelligence and machine learning in distributed detector networks; quantum dot-based neutrino fission reactor detector and fuzzy logic scintillator selection tool. Presentations generated Q&A style discussions in the room and on line and stimulated further interest in these research topics. The NuSec Network director also gave a short presentation on our current NuSec Grant Schemes that will help stimulate the submission of future funding applications. Power point presentations and video recording were made available on line via the NuSec website. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/nusec-network-funded-research-technical-workshop,-3rd-november-2021 |
| Description | NuSec Technical Workshop, 9th October 2023 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Other audiences |
| Results and Impact | The workshop provided an opportunity to hear and discuss the latest research findings from NuSec funded, detection method and technology projects. Presentations were given by NuSec funded PhDs, UK-US Collaboration Grants PDRAs, Sigma Data Projects and Summer 2023 Pilot Project Students. Topics included Detection Methods, Instrumentation, Algorithms, Machine Learning, our Sigma Data Challenge and an Introduction to the new Nuclear Threat Reduction Network ( NTR-Net) In total there were 20 presentations, 100 people in attendance (in person and on line from the UK & USA) The workshop was co-located with the NuFor: Nuclear Forensics Conference, Mary Ward House, London, 10-12 October 2023so that those attending the NuSec workshop could also attend the longer NuFor Conference. NuSec funded research posters were displayed throughout both events. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://indico.cern.ch/event/731980/timetable/#20231009.detailed |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge Workshop 30th June 2023 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Sigma Data providers wanted to discuss and resolve issues in understanding and analysing the data and how best to assist the 10 Sigma Challenge Data Research Groups. It was also an opportunity for research groups to present their projects, identify commonalities and share solutions with each other. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2023 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/data-challenge |
| Description | Sigma Data Challenge Workshop 30th Nov 2022 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Five applicants groups were invited to participate in an online workshop to discuss next steps for releasing and analysing the SIGMA data. Participants were also encouraged to collaborate and share information with each other during their planned research. They were also invited to apply to NuSec for up to 3 months worth of student stipend funding to assist their proposed project research. AWE attendees were also able answer the majority of technical questions regarding the nature and format of the data |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2022 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/data-challenge |
| Description | UK-US Workshop on Nuclear Security and Non-Proliferation Skills 27-28 April 2021 |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | This workshop launched the UK Call for NuSec-NNSA Collaboration Grant applications. The online workshop ran as a Zoom meeting over 2 consecutive afternoons. Each afternoon session included keynote talks from leading UK and US scientists, (23 in total) . The event provided an opportunity for potential applicants to find out more about the research undertaken in the UK and within the three NNSA consortia, ETI, NSSC, MTV, and to make connections with other UK and US researchers. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2021 |
| URL | https://www.nusec.uk/nnsa-uk-%E2%80%93-us-collaboration-grants-workshop |