What does a nuclear engineer do?

I'm exploring careers in engineering and came across nuclear engineering. Can someone explain what nuclear engineers do and what kind of projects they typically work on?

Absolutely, I'm glad you're interested in exploring engineering careers!

Nuclear engineers apply the principles of nuclear physics in several fields, including energy production, radiation detection, medical treatments, or even space exploration. The scope can be broken down into several areas:

1. Energy production: A significant focus for many nuclear engineers is in the field of power generation. They can work at nuclear power plants where they design, implement, and oversee systems and processes to harness nuclear energy efficiently and safely.

2. Radiation Protection: Nuclear engineers develop and implement safety protocols to limit the exposure to radiation when it's being used, such as in power plants or medical facilities. They also design containment structures to prevent radioactive materials from escaping into the environment.

3. Medical Field: Some nuclear engineers specialize in medical applications of radioactive materials. For instance, they might work on the creation of equipment used to diagnose and treat medical conditions, like cancer, using radiation therapy.

4. Research and Development: Nuclear engineers can work on developing new uses for nuclear material, new methods to handle nuclear waste, or improvements in reactor design that make power plants more efficient or safer.

In terms of the projects they typically work on, it can vary based on their specialty. For example, a nuclear engineer working in power generation may work on optimizing the design or operation of nuclear reactors. An engineer in the medical field might develop new applications for radioactive isotopes, for imaging or treatment. In research, nuclear engineers might work on projects such as designing and testing safer or more efficient reactor designs.

Keep in mind, the field of nuclear engineering is evolving and can have an expansive impact across various sectors. It's a fascinating field with a wide array of opportunities!