Program Overview

Program Overview

The Nuclear Research Reactor Laboratory Abroad program offers students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience operating a nuclear reactor at the Czech Technical University in Prague, Czech Republic. The program includes a one-week reactor physics course, experiments on reactor operation, flux measurement, and measurements of reactor parameters using pool type reactors.

Program Details

Program Dates

The program will take place from May 18 to 31, 2025.

Program Description

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of nuclear research reactors and their applications. Students will have the opportunity to work with experts in nuclear physics and engineering, and to explore the city of Prague and its rich cultural heritage.

Program Components

• VR-1 Reactor and Training: Gain hands-on experience operating a nuclear reactor at the Czech Technical University.
• Nuclear Institute Řež: Visit the leading center for nuclear research in the country, focusing on nuclear energy, reactor safety, and radiation protection.
• Škoda Nuclear Machinery: Learn about the company's industrial expertise in traditional and advanced nuclear technology.
• Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: Visit the birthplace of one of the most iconic beers in the world and explore the medieval charm of České Budějovice.
• Temelín Nuclear Power Plant Visit: Take a tour of the largest nuclear power station in the Czech Republic and learn about its contribution to the country's electricity supply.
• Prague Castle: Explore the historic monument that houses museums, art collections, and national events.

Academic Credit

Students who enroll in the program will receive 4 credit hours in NE 427: Honors (Nuclear Reactor Laboratory Abroad).

Learning Outcomes

• Verify through experiment the predictions of reactor theory for the time-dependent behavior of the reactor.
• Verify through experiment the predictions of reactor theory for the spatial shape and energy spectrum of neutron fluxes.
• Measure neutron and reactor parameters.
• Describe the extent to which analysis and experiment agree, and what approximations or uncertainty result in deviations between the two.
• Explain global nuclear issues related to international safeguards and arms controls.
• Acquire basic insights into European history, art, and culture.

Housing and Meals

Students will be assigned to hotels, and housing is included in the program fee. A welcome dinner, farewell dinner, and occasional lunches with the group are also included in the program fee.

Program Requirements

• Rising Senior
• Prereq – NE 401
• Minimum GPA 2.0

Program Cost

• Program Fee: $2,100
• In-State Tuition: $2,008
• Out-of-State Tuition: $5,268
• Study Abroad Fee: $175
• Engineering Course Fees: $468
• Estimated Travel Costs: $1,200
• Estimated additional expenses (Meals, Personal, Passport): $960

Instructors

• Ondrej Chvala, Research Assistant Professor, Department of Nuclear Engineering