The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) is looking for U.S.-based entities that can help it attract and maintain nuclear experts in a talent pool supporting the U.S. nuclear enterprise. A sources sought solicitation released earlier this month is aimed at interested parties for a project that would involve “maintaining a smaller, but still vibrant, community of nuclear experts to support U.S. strategic nuclear capabilities.”
The solicitation comes amid ongoing concerns within the semiautonomous Department of Energy agency over maintaining scientific expertise throughout the nuclear weapons complex as the older generation’s technical experts approach retirement.
“Consequently, NNSA is seeking sources to attract and network individuals into the nuclear security program that otherwise might not have had the interest to explore opportunities or identify options for resolving nuclear security issues,” the announcement said. The project would involve creating a talent network through which NNSA could foster “new ideas in the nuclear security fields” and debate on nuclear weapons policy, it said.
The notice said interested entities would be responsible for building a network of young topic experts from the nuclear enterprise, the military, industry, academia, and nonprofits; developing among the next generation subject matter expertise and other relevant professional skills for nuclear policy roles; and mobilizing the expertise within that network to identify new ideas concerning nuclear weapons.
The solicitation may later result in a funding opportunity announcement, NNSA said. Capability statements are due by Dec. 31 by email to [email protected].
