William S. Charlton

Dr. William Charlton is a Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, holding the John J. McKetta Energy Professorship in the Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering. He serves as the Director of the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory, which houses the newest nuclear research reactor in the U.S. His career spans leadership roles in academic nuclear security and nonproliferation research, including founding the Nuclear Security Science & Policy Institute at Texas A&M University (2006–2015) and leading research programs at the University of Nebraska’s National Strategic Research Institute (2015–2018).

Dr. Charlton’s research focuses on nuclear security, nonproliferation, radiation detection, and nuclear forensics. His work addresses technical solutions for nuclear threats, including reactor design, spent fuel verification, and border monitoring systems. Recent publications highlight advancements in neutron resonance densitometry, gamma-ray background modeling, and proliferation resistance analysis tools.

His scientific awards include the Special Service Award from the Institute of Nuclear Materials Management (2010), multiple Faculty Fellowships at Texas A&M, and the NSRI Distinguished Research Award (2017). Dr. Charlton has supervised numerous students, including R. Coogan, D. Sweeney, and B. Goddard, on topics ranging from nuclear detection to safeguards.

As Director of the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory, he oversees cutting-edge research facilities and collaborates with national security agencies. His security clearances (TOP SECRET, SCI) reflect his role in high-impact projects for the U.S. Department of Defense and National Nuclear Security Administration.