Funke Attends 2024 MeV Summer School in Chicago, USA

NSIRC PhD Student Funke Dacosta-Salu has attended the 2024 Modeling, Experimentation, and Validation (MeV) Summer School at Argonne National Laboratory in Chicago, USA.

This esteemed event gathered participants from around the world, including universities, regulatory bodies, national laboratories, and other key stakeholders in the nuclear industry.

The MeV Summer School focused on the crucial role of modelling and experimentation, emphasizing the significance of validating data to instil confidence in the results.

Attendees were introduced to cutting-edge advancements in nuclear technology, including the latest developments in Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Twin applications in the nuclear sector.

Highlights of Funke's experience at MeV include:

• Exposure to Industry-Leading Simulation and Modeling Tools: Identifying and discussing modern tools shaping the future of nuclear technology.
• Collaborative Reactor Design Project: Working with a diverse team to develop a novel reactor concept aimed at addressing unique societal challenges, sharpening skills in teamwork, collaboration, innovative thinking, and problem-solving.
• Introduction to Modern Nuclear Technologies: Learning about the latest advancements in nuclear reactors and ongoing innovations in the field.
• Networking Opportunities: Connecting with peers, mentors, and experts from national laboratories, universities, and industry, building valuable relationships for the future.
• Facility Tours: Gaining an in-depth understanding of nuclear operations through the tour of the LaSalle Nuclear Power Plant (Constellation Energy) and other facilities at ANL. 

Awarded a prestigious scholarship to attend MeV, Funke said, " I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the Argonne National Laboratory, Idaho National Laboratory, and Oak Ridge National Laboratory, for making this invaluable experience possible."

"A personal highlight of mine was the opportunity to meet Kathryn Huff, the former Assistant Secretary for the Office of Nuclear Energy, a role model in the field."

 She extended her heartfelt thanks to the NSIRC, TWI, Lloyd's Register Foundation, Coventry University, and Michael Fitzpatrick for their continuous support.

A doctoral student at NSIRC since 2021, Funke's research focuses on thermal-mechanical analysis of mixing points in nuclear power plants.