Graduate School of Public Policy

JSGS CSIP Forum: Nuclear 101 & Small Modular Reactors: A Shallow Dive into Nuclear Technology

Presented By: Dr. Steve Livingstone, P.Eng. Small Modular Reactor Specialist, Crown Energy Security Unit, Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan.

Abstract: Nuclear power technology is a highly sophisticated and complicated way to boil water. This talk is a conversation that aims to guide the audience through key concepts of nuclear power, to help build an initial understanding of this technology. The talk will touch very briefly on types of SMRs, nuclear physics (don’t worry, only one equation), nuclear security, a pop-quiz on radiation dose, a look at spent fuel and a look at nuclear emergency planning zones. Lastly, freshly equipped with this new nuclear knowledge, a quick review of the two SMR types being explored in Saskatchewan will be provided. Thirty to forty minutes isn’t enough to make attendees nuclear experts, but hopefully this information inspires questions and more learning and information sharing about nuclear technology.         

Speaker Bio: After Engineering Physics at Queen’s, Steve completed an MSc at the University of Saskatchewan in Physics before entering the nuclear industry with Atomic Energy Canada Ltd and a PhD with the Royal Military College of Canada. Steve spent 14 years at Chalk River Labs gaining hands-on experience across nuclear technology, including all aspects of fuel, SLOWPOKE-2 reactors, safety and security, and waste management. Since 2020, Steve has been working with the Government of Saskatchewan as a Small Modular Reactor specialist.


Event Information

Date: Thursday, October 20, 2022
Time: 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Saskatchewan Time - CST (Central Standard Time)

This event is being hosted through Zoom.  A confirmation email, including the Zoom connection details, will be sent to the email address provided below.

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