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Danny Eckerberg’s path to nuclear engineering wasn’t a straight line. It was more like a winding road with unexpected turns. Sitting down with Wildcat 91.9’s Dawson Wagner, the Kansas State University graduate research assistant shared his journey from aspiring premed student to a key figure in K-State’s Radiological Engineering Analysis Laboratory. Along the way, he found a passion for math, physics, and the complex world of nuclear science.
"I thought I was going to be premed at one point in high school," Eckerberg admitted. "But as I kept exploring and learning, I found a love for math and physics, which naturally led me to engineering."
Initially drawn to K-State’s fledgling biomedical engineering program, Eckerberg quickly pivoted to chemical engineering, then mechanical engineering, before discovering his true calling in nuclear engineering.
"The hardest and most interesting physics and math were on the nuclear side of mechanical engineering," he explained. That realization set him on a path that would lead to groundbreaking research and advocacy for nuclear energy.
A Hidden Gem at K-State
Eckerberg highlighted the unique opportunities available at K-State, particularly its dedicated Ward Hall—a building entirely focused on nuclear engineering—and its on-campus nuclear reactor. "We have one of only 26 nuclear reactors on college campuses in the country," he said proudly. This reactor, built in 1962, serves as a training and research tool rather than a power source. "It was designed to be safe so that at any point, a student working with it could walk away, and it would shut itself down," he explained.
While Eckerberg’s work doesn’t directly involve operating the reactor, he’s deeply engaged in radiation protection and detection research. His focus lies in understanding the long-term health effects of radiation exposure — a field that requires meticulous study over decades.
"The largest study we have is on atomic bomb survivors," he noted. Known as the Lifespan Study, this research has provided invaluable insights into radiation’s impact on human health.
Debunking Myths About Nuclear Energy
Eckerberg also addressed common misconceptions about nuclear energy, particularly fears stemming from high-profile accidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima. "It’s important to understand that these disasters are statistically rare and have taught us valuable lessons," he said. Modern reactor designs are now "walkaway safe," meaning they can shut down autonomously in case of an emergency. "Engineers today do a very good job ensuring safety, and entities like the Nuclear Regulatory Commission are there every step of the way."
He pointed out that while nuclear energy isn’t renewable — it relies on uranium — it is a clean energy source with zero carbon emissions. This makes it a critical player in combating climate change. "There’s this interesting divide within environmentalism," Eckerberg observed. "Some see nuclear energy as a clean solution with no carbon emissions, while others worry about potential disasters."
The Future of Nuclear Technology
Looking ahead, Eckerberg is optimistic about the role of nuclear energy in shaping a more sustainable future.
He highlighted advancements like small modular reactors (SMRs), which are more compact and versatile than traditional reactors. These could be deployed in remote areas or even used to power data centers — a concept already being explored by companies like Google and NVIDIA.
On the cutting edge of research is fusion energy—the process of combining atoms rather than splitting them (as in fission). While fusion remains a challenge due to the immense energy required to initiate reactions, recent breakthroughs have shown promise.
"In ten years, it’ll be better; maybe in fifty years, it will be usable," Eckerberg speculated.
Advice for Aspiring Engineers
For students considering a career in nuclear science, Eckerberg offered encouraging words: "If you’re interested in math, physics, or engineering, don’t be afraid to give it a try. The field is more accessible than people think." He emphasized the supportive community within K-State’s program and beyond. "There are so many opportunities—from undergraduate classes to international conferences—to get involved and make an impact."
As the interview wrapped up, Eckerberg left listeners with a hopeful message.
"Nuclear technology is improving every day. If we continue to innovate responsibly, it can play a significant role in creating a cleaner, safer future."
To learn more about the Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering at K-State visit https://www.mne.k-state.edu/