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Some graduate students in Tennessee Tech University’s Department of Chemistry will have a new way to gain valuable pre-professional experience, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership with the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge.

In a collaboration spearheaded by Tech’s David Dan, an Assistant Professor who teaches radiochemistry, Consolidated Nuclear Security, which operates Y-12 for the National Nuclear Security Administration, has awarded the university a $1 million subcontract agreement that initially runs through April 2030.

“This marks a significant milestone in advancing research and workforce development in the field of radiochemistry,” said Jeff Boles, Chair of Tech’s Chemistry Department.

The partnership will primarily benefit some of Tech’s chemistry graduate students, who will gain hands-on experience working on specialized projects at Y-12, a facility that plays a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear defense technology.

“These students will have the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills acquired at Tech in a real-world setting during summer research programs, further enhancing their career readiness,” Dan said.

Both Boles and Dan said the agreement is a testament to the university’s longstanding reputation for producing highly skilled and dedicated chemistry graduates, many of whom have gone on to successful careers at Y-12 and the nearby Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Y-12 Site Manager Gene Sievers likewise highlighted the strategic importance of academia in the partnership.

“We have long recognized the importance of academia as a key resource in supplying creative and dedicated talent. This collaboration with Tennessee Tech aligns with our mission to strengthen research and development capabilities and accelerate technology development,” Sievers said.

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