Nuclear Research Reactor Laboratory Abroad

Program Details

Program Dates: May 18—31, 2025

Bring your laboratory experience abroad to Prague, not only a UNESCO monument known as “The City of a Hundred Spires,” but also a prime location for nuclear research reactors and enthusiasts. The Czech government, with support from the European Union, invests heavily in nuclear energy to create sustainable funding and support for reactors in the city. The Czech Republic built its first reactor in the 1950s, the VR-1, which was established at the Czech Technical University in Prague–the university that will be hosting YOU and offering a one week reactor physics course. Come learn at this highly specialized institute by experts in nuclear physics and engineering.

Your reactor laboratory will consist of experiments on reactor operation, flux measurement, and measurements of reactor parameters using pool type reactors. Beyond the lab, explore one of the most beautiful cities in the world and get lost in the heart of Czech culture, with stunning architectural displays, music, and art.

Learn more about studying abroad in Prague

A Peak at Your Experience

Prague, Czech Republic

• VR-1 Reactor and Training: Gain hands-on experience operating a nuclear reactor at the Czech Technical University. This reactor is known as a “Czech Training Reactor,” as it is primarily used for educational purposes, which allows students to simulate real-life nuclear scenarios without the risks. The VR-1 is internationally recognized for its high safety standards and collaboration with various nuclear institutions across Europe. 
• Nuclear Institute Řež: The leading center for nuclear research in the country, this Nuclear Institute focuses on nuclear energy, reactor safety, and radiation protection. It is both a hub for innovation and education. 
• Škoda Nuclear Machinery: Škoda’s industrial expertise dates back to the 19th century, evolving into a leader in traditional and advanced nuclear technology, such as manufacturing reactor vessels, steam generators, and other essential components for nuclear power stations. 
• Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: Take a visit to České Budějovice, also referred to “Budweis” –the birthplace of one of the most iconic beers in the world. With a brewing tradition that has been around for 700 years, this brewery commits to high-quality beer using traditional methods. In addition to this brewery visit, České Budějovice offers medieval charm boasting Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. 
• Temelín Nuclear Power Plant Visit: Take a tour of the largest nuclear power station in the Czech Republic and one of the most significant in central Europe. It consists of two pressurized water reactors that contribute greatly (20%) to the countries’ electricity supply. Temelín is a player in reducing the country’s carbon footprint. 
• Prague Castle: A historic monument that houses museums, art collections, and national events, this castle symbolizes the country’s cultural and political heritage. It has been the seat of Czech kings and emperors–and now the president. 

Vienna, Austria

• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Visit: Since 1957, this international organization has promoted nuclear programs for peaceful purposes, such as nuclear safety, security, development of technology, energy production, and medical treatments. 
• United Nations Information Service in Vienna (UNIS) Visit: UNIS is a branch of the UN, providing information about the work of the UN and its agencies in Vienna, including the Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). UNIS promotes a key role in promoting the understanding of the UN’s efforts in nuclear safety, drug control, and international cooperation. 
• Belvedere Museum and Palace: Visit the historic complex, holding two Baroque palaces and a beautiful garden. Admire the Upper Belvedere level, renowned for its Austrian art and 19th-century, medieval, and Baroque collections. Head to the Lower Belvedere level to catch the temporary exhibitions and walk around the Marble Hall. 
• Saint Stephen’s Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral started its foundation in 1137 and was completed by the late 15th century. It has witnessed the election of emperors and royal weddings, as well as having survived multiple crises, such as the WWII bombings. For an extra fee, you can tour the underground catacombs that holds the burials of historical figures and the famous Vienna plague pits. 

Academic Credit

This course is a study abroad laboratory that consists of three day lectures at UTK followed
by two weeks of international experience. First, we will travel to various sites of technical and
cultural interest in the Czech Republic, then travel to the IAEA in Vienna, and finally travel
back to the Czech Technical University in Prague for a one week reactor physics course. The
reactor laboratory will consist of experiments on reactor operation, flux measurement,
measurements of reactor parameters, using pool type reactor. There will laboratory reports
and one final review to be given at the end of the trip.

Students who enroll will receive 4 credit hours in NE 427: Honors (Nuclear Reactor Laboratory Abroad)

Learning Outcomes

• Verify through experiment the predictions of reactor theory for the time-dependent
  behavior of the reactor in the subcritical state, the critical state and the supercritical state as
  well as the response of the reactor to reactivity perturbation.
• Verify through experiment the predictions of reactor theory for the spatial shape and energy
  spectrum of neutron fluxes.
• Measure neutron and reactor parameters.
• Describe the extent to which analysis and experiment agree, and what approximations
  (analysis) or uncertainty (experiment) result in deviations between the two.
• Explain global nuclear issues related to international safeguards and arms controls.
• Acquire basic insights into European history, art, and culture.

Housing & Meals

Students will be assigned in hotels. Housing is included in the program fee. There is a welcome dinner, farewell dinner, and occasional lunches with the group. These meals are included in the program fee.