Event Details

All staff and students welcome to join talk by Dr. Fan Zhang from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Title: Enhancing Advanced Reactor Efficiency and Cybersecurity using AI/ML

Abstract: As nuclear energy expands its capacity and operational scope to meet evolving energy needs and combat climate change, it is essential to reduce operation and maintenance costs to maintain economic viability. In our research, we integrated machine learning and robotics to develop advanced online monitoring and diagnosis systems which improve operational efficiency and reactor economics. This approach allows for an increase in sensing scope, reduction in human labor, and decreased human exposure to hazardous conditions. With digitalization and advanced ML/AI application, cybersecurity is becoming a pressing challenge. I will also highlight research on nuclear cybersecurity using ML/AI. This includes methods for detecting, responding to, and mitigating cyber-attacks, ensuring the safe and secure operation of advanced nuclear reactors. Join us for an informative discussion on how advanced technology and research are shaping the future of nuclear energy!

Bio: Dr. Fan Zhang is an Assistant Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology. She received her Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville in 2019. Dr. Zhang directs the Intelligence for Advance Nuclear (iFAN) lab in developing research which uses AI/ML to enhance cybersecurity and optimize nuclear power plant operations, such as digital twins, predictive maintenance, autonomous controls, and robotics. She has been actively involved in IAEA nuclear cybersecurity research and education for six years. Dr. Zhang is a Georgia Tech College of Engineering Cybersecurity Fellow. She is the recipient of the 2021 Ted Quinn Early Career Award from the American Nuclear Society for her contributions in the fields of instrumentation & control and cybersecurity. In 2022, she was awarded the inaugural Distinguished Early Career Award from the U.S. DOE Office of Nuclear Energy. She has also been selected to the Class of 2023 Volunteer 40 Under 40 for her professional achievements and broad research impact. In 2023, Dr. Zhang was invited by National Academy of Engineering (NAE) to attend the EU-US Frontiers of Engineering Symposium as one of highly accomplished early-career engineers.