Robotics
Jul 24, 2026
Researcher Develops Autonomous Control Systems for Nuclear Plant Operations
Jul 24, 2026
AI Summary
Lauren Fortier, a doctoral student at MIT, is working on remote operation protocols to automate nuclear plant operations. Her research aims to create a supervisory control system that integrates human and machine interactions, which could enhance the efficiency and viability of nuclear power, especially for small, rural plants.
- Lauren Fortier is a second-year doctoral student in Nuclear Science and Engineering at MIT, focusing on autonomous control systems for nuclear plants.
- Fortier's background includes supervising nuclear operations on a U.S. aircraft carrier, which sparked her interest in improving operational processes.
- She developed a supervisory control system during her master's degree, which she is now expanding upon for her PhD.
- The goal of her research is to transition nuclear plant operations from manual to autonomous systems, particularly for small plants that cannot support large staff.
- Fortier emphasizes the need for a central supervisory control system that accommodates both human and machine operations.
- Collaborations with the Idaho National Laboratory and Westinghouse have enhanced her research, providing insights into human-machine interfaces and practical applications.
- Her approach uses finite state automata for automation, which is transparent and event-driven, avoiding reliance on AI due to current validation challenges.
- Fortier's work has been recognized with an award from the Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy University Program, highlighting its potential impact on the future of nuclear energy and microreactor deployment.
- The research aims to build trust in automated systems through gradual implementation and user-friendly procedures.
automationnuclear energyengineeringphd researchenergy efficiency