Nuclear Energy Program Office

Advancing the Future of Nuclear Energy

SPO-NE leads nuclear innovation through research, partnerships, and strategic programs that support national priorities and energy goals.

The Science Program Office of Nuclear Energy (SPO-NE) is at the forefront of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges in nuclear energy research, repository science, and national security. Situated within the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), SPO-NE integrates the laboratory’s advanced nuclear capabilities, cutting-edge facilities, and multidisciplinary expertise to drive innovation and achieve impactful solutions.

SPO-NE serves as a bridge between the Laboratory and key stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, and international collaborators, ensuring seamless coordination and alignment of nuclear energy initiatives. By fostering strategic partnerships and maintaining strong institutional relationships, SPO-NE is uniquely positioned to support the development and implementation of next-generation nuclear technologies, while also contributing to global energy security and environmental stewardship.

SPO-NE oversees a diverse range of initiatives aimed at advancing nuclear energy research and development. Which focuses on:

• Ensuring safe and efficient mitigation of nuclear waste from civilian, military, NSSA, and mining sources.
• Modernizing access to uranium fuel resources within the United States.
• Advanced Fuels: Developing next-generation nuclear fuels to enhance efficiency, safety, and performance in modern reactors.
• Nuclear Safeguards: Strengthening the safeguards-by-design approach to ensure the secure and responsible use of nuclear technology.
• Reactor Campaigns: Innovating and supporting projects that improve reactor design, operation, and sustainability, contributing to the future of clean energy.
• Critical Experiments and validation