On this page: what qualifies as nuclear-related research, which federal agencies oversee it and the resources are available at ASU to support safe and compliant research.

What is nuclear research?

Nuclear research involves the study, development and application of nuclear science and technology. Nuclear research may use nuclear materials (e.g. isotopes, uranium); SMRs (small nuclear reactors); radioactive byproducts or radiation sources; technology and data relevant to nuclear energy and security.

Which federal agencies fund nuclear research?

Which agencies regulate nuclear-related research?

What policies and resources does ASU have?

What training is available?

A CITI course launched in 2024 is available and provides guidance and resources for a stronger understanding of advanced nuclear technologies and relevant federal regulations.

After logging in to CITIProgram.org through your organization with your ASURITE, steps to access it include:

  1. Select Add a Course under Webinars
  2. Choose Additional Research Integrity and Research Administration Topics
  3. Select the webinar Considerations for Colleges with Research Reactors
    on Campus

All federally funded researchers will need to take annual Research Security training to meet current and upcoming federal sponsor proposal and award requirements.

After you’ve logged into CITIProgram.org through your organization (ASU) with your ASURITE, select “Add a Course” on MyCourses, the “Research Security” training category, and then the “Research Security Training (Combined)” course.

The “Research Security Training (Combined)” course takes about an hour to complete.

For questions on these trainings, please contact Research Compliance at [email protected].

Are there dual-use concerns with nuclear research?

Yes. Some nuclear technologies and knowledge can be applied for both beneficial purposes (e.g., medicine, energy) and harmful purposes (e.g., weapons).

Are there export control concerns with nuclear research?

Yes. Nuclear technology, data and materials are subject to Export Administration Regulations and International Traffic in Arms Regulations. Sharing certain nuclear-related information with foreign nationals may not be allowed or require prior authorization from the federal agency.

Are there common terms and conditions that apply to nuclear research awards?

Yes. Nuclear research awards will include specific research compliance and security requirements. Below are a list of common terms and conditions that may apply:

Participation

  • Restrictions on foreign nationals (non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents).
  • Foreign involvement may require prior sponsor approval.
  • U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency may be required for certain research projects, especially those involving U.S critical technologies.
  • Restrictions may extend to key personnel, students and technical staff.
  • Restrictions may extend to Entities of Concern as defined in section 10114 of Public Law 117-167 (42 HSC 18912), also known as the CHIPS and Science Act.
  • Security clearance may be required for researchers engaged in targeted nuclear research.

Data, technology and export controls

  • Research results, materials and technologies may be subject to:
    • Export Administration Regulations
    • International Traffic in Arms Regulations
    • Nuclear Regulatory Commission (10 CFR Part 110) export controls.
  • Sharing technical data with foreign nationals may constitute a “deemed export,” potentially requiring a license.
  • Sponsor review and approval may be required before publication (Publication Restriction).
  • Classified and Controlled Unclassified Information must be safeguarded.
  • Restrictions may apply to conference presentations or international collaborations.

Facilities, materials and security

  • Requirements for use of secure labs and compliance with DOE/NNSA facility standards.
  • Access controls on nuclear materials and radiation sources.
  • Additional reporting on nuclear material usage, disposition and security measures.
  • Periodic sponsor reviews to ensure compliance with safety and non-proliferation regulations.

Legal and regulatory compliance

  • Record-keeping obligations covering training, personnel access and export license determinations.
  • Explicit prohibitions on using research results for nuclear explosive devices or weapons applications.
  • Compliance with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Act, Atomic Energy Act, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (CAA 2024, Public Law 118-42)1 and the Chips and Science Act (Chips Act, Public Law 117-167), and the National Environmental Policy Act.

Who do I contact at ASU?