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Naked Nuclear

Danielle Allen

Ever wondered how nuclear energy works or what advanced nuclear technology really means? Naked Nuclear breaks down complex topics like nuclear reactors, fuel types, and emerging technologies into simple, accessible conversations. Whether you're a curious beginner or an energy enthusiast, we make the science behind nuclear power easy to understand so you can launch your career in the clean energy future. Tune in to strip down the fascinating world of nuclear energy—one atom at a time.

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  • 62 episodes
  • Updated Friday

Episodes62

Newest first
  • Nov 21, 2024 · 6 min

    After-Pop! Stripping Down Nuclear Fuels from Ep1

    Welcome to the Ep.1 After-pop! Nuclear Fuels Breakdown: Uranium Oxide, Uranium Silicide, Uranium Mononitride, and HALEU In this quick follow-up episode, we dive deeper into the world of nuclear fuels. Dr. Jennifer Watkins breaks down the key materials used in advanced nuclear reactors, including: Uranium Oxide (UO₂): The most common nuclear fuel, typically used in light water reactors. Uranium Silicide (U₃Si₂): A high-density fuel offering improved performance in reactors. Uranium Mononitride (UN): A promising fuel for fast reactors with superior thermal conductivity. HALEU (High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium): A next-generation fuel with higher enrichment, key to enabling advanced reactor technologies. Learn more about Dr. Watkins fuel research at INL here: https://inl.gov/feature-story/u-s-researchers-fabricate-commercial-grade-uranium-dioxide-haleu-fuel/

  • Nov 18, 2024 · 29 min

    Bill Collector to PhD?!? An Unexpected Pivot to Nuclear Pioneer

    Thank you for dropping in! In this inspiring episode of Naked Nuclear, we share the remarkable story of Dr. Jennifer Watkins, who made an unexpected career pivot from bill collector to becoming an advanced nuclear fuels researcher at the Idaho National Laboratory. From growing up in rural Idaho to earning a PhD at Boise State, Dr. Watkins reflects on the pivotal moments that changed the course of her life. She opens up about the challenges she faced, including jumping back into math at age 36, and shares how her passion for discovery led her to groundbreaking work in nuclear fuels research. This episode highlights how resilience and a willingness to keep learning can propel you toward a career in one of the most critical industries of our time: nuclear energy. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Pivoting Your Career: From Bill Collector to Nuclear Scientist 00:34 – Introducing Dr. Jennifer Watkins 01:07 – Early Life and Initial Career 02:21 – The Decision to Pivot 03:40 – Entering the World of Engineering 05:58 – The Hero's Journey Begins 08:37 – Discovering Nuclear Fuels 09:57 – Advanced Technology Fuels 11:43 – Graduate Studies and Research 15:38 – The Push for Nuclear Energy 19:30 – Breaking Down Nuclear Myths 20:34 – Advice for Aspiring Nuclear Professionals 25:42 – Rapid Fire Questions with Dr. Watkins 28:58 – Final Words and Future Episodes Dr. Watkins' Publications: Looking for Dr. Watkins' groundbreaking research? Jennifer K. Watkins What’s research is happening at Idaho National Laboratory? https://inl.gov/nuclear-energy/all-research/ Looking to pivot your career into nuclear? Check out the Center for Energy Workforce Development brochure: https://cewd.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/GIE-Nuclear-Flyer-FINAL.pdf