Russian Academic Program on Nonproliferation and International Security

The greatest threat to the world today is the proliferation of nuclear and radiological weapons. The Nuclear Security Science and Policy Institute (NSSPI) at Texas A & M University (TAMU) works collaboratively to develop nuclear security technical education programs with two premier Russian universities: the Moscow Engineering Physics Institute (MEPhI) and the Obninsk Institute for Nuclear Power Engineering (IATE). RAP-NIS develops future leaders who will work to detect, deter, and prevent the proliferation of nuclear materials and technology.

The U.S. and Russia need technically sophisticated nuclear scientists and engineers to promote clean energy, address nuclear waste legacies, prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons and material, and facilitate participation in the community of nations. Through RAP-NIS, Russia's next generation of nuclear specialists will (1) be equipped with modern practices and training in nuclear material safeguards and nuclear nonproliferation issues, (2) have a working network of related international contacts, and (3) have the skills and expertise necessary to support a sustainable Russian nuclear security culture.

RAP-NIS has resulted in the development of 4 new Master of Science degree specializations in Russia and 1 new Master of Science degree specialization in the U.S. focused on nuclear nonproliferation. RAP-NIS is impacting the lives of young professionals and investing in the future of clean nuclear energy. This will lead to an increased security culture in both the U.S. and Russia and will help to make the world a more secure place.