Introduction to Nuclear Engineering and Ionizing Radiation We conduct research to support the International Tokamak Experimental Reactor project and collaborate with experts throughout industry and academia. Our community members make key scientific and engineering advances in fission engineering and nuclear energy, fusion and plasma physics, and nuclear science and technology. Today we are working to make nuclear power the safest, most economical, and most environmentally friendly way of generating electricity.ĭespite having roots at MIT that span more than 60 years, nuclear engineering is relatively new compared to other engineering disciplines, and its many applications will benefit society in areas from healthcare and radiation detection to space exploration and advanced materials. MIT researchers conducted one of the first studies on nuclear reactors for large-scale electricity generation in 1953. Today the department focuses on creating a broad range of nuclear engineering applications that improve human and environmental health. The program was one of the first of its kind in the country, and civilians and military personnel flocked to the Institute to learn about nuclear weapons and propulsion. Research and education in nuclear science and engineering first began at MIT in 1948.