Dr. Robert Bruce Hayes
Associate Professor
Nuclear Engineering Department
North Carolina State University

Abstract

This presentation explores the complexities of radiological risk within the broader context of nuclear energy, waste management, and public perception. It begins by examining the nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining and fuel enrichment to interim storage and permanent disposal of used nuclear fuel. Key discussions include the scale of nuclear waste production, transportation safety, and geological disposal solutions, with real-world examples such as the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) and the natural fission reactors at Oklo.

A central focus is placed on understanding radiation risk in context, addressing common misconceptions and comparing radiation exposure from various sources—including medical procedures, natural background radiation, and nuclear accidents such as Three Mile Island, Fukushima, and Chernobyl. The presentation highlights the rigorous safety measures in place for handling nuclear materials and the relative risks of nuclear energy compared to other energy sources.

Additionally, the talk emphasizes the role of effective radiological risk communication in public policy and decision-making. Misinformation and fear surrounding radiation often drive policy decisions that are not aligned with scientific evidence. By comparing dose-response relationships, regulatory limits, and real-world radiation exposure levels, this presentation aims to bridge the gap between technical expertise and public understanding.

Ultimately, this discussion advocates for a rational, science-based approach to nuclear safety, highlighting how nuclear power and renewable energy sources can complement each other in achieving sustainable energy solutions.

Biography

Robert is an Associate Professor of Nuclear Engineering at North Carolina State University, where he directs the Health Physics graduate certificate and minor programs. He holds a joint faculty appointment with Savannah River National Laboratory and serves as an Associate Editor for the journal Radiation Physics and Chemistry.

Dr. Hayes is a licensed Professional Engineer in Nuclear Engineering, a Certified Health Physicist (CHP) through the American Board of Health Physics, and a Fellow of both the Health Physics Society (HPS) and the American Physical Society (APS). He has extensive experience in federal radiological emergency response, having served in multiple capacities on national response teams and contributed over a decade of expertise at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant for the geological disposal of transuranic waste.

Currently, Dr. Hayes is an advisor to the DOE-NNSA Advisory Committee on Nuclear Security and serves on the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) committee responsible for nuclear engineering licensure. His research spans novel shielding technologies, radiological air monitoring, and retrospective dosimetry, with applications in nuclear forensics, nonproliferation, emergency response, and radiation protection. In addition to his academic and research contributions, he is actively engaged in public communication on radiological risk, particularly in the realm of nuclear waste management.

Thursday, March 20. 2025
4:10 pm seminar

zoom link upon request