The University of Texas of the Permian Basin HT3R project launched a new summer research project for students. The research group’s purpose is to simulate nuclear radiation in a variety of situations, including nuclear physics experiments and the reactor core of the HT3R reactor. The students are, from left to right, top row, Matt Moore, Calvin ‘C.J.’ Hernandez,  Zach Hadel and William Mayne; front row, from left to right, Christina Lin and Sterling Satterfield. To learn more about the UTPB HT3R project, visit the Web site at www.utpb.edu/ht3r/index.htm.

a nu generation of scientists

Students ‘heat’ up summer nuclear research project

Six students from the local area and across Texas are participating in a hot new research project this summer in the UT Permian Basin HT3R offices.

HT3R, pronounced “heater,” is the acronym for the university’s proposed High-Temperature Teaching and Test Reactor Energy Research Facility that would train engineers and scientist to develop new solutions to the world’s energy problems.

As part of the summer project, professor and summer project director Steve Nelson recruited students to establish a new research group at UTPB.  The research group’s purpose is to simulate nuclear radiation in a variety of situations, including nuclear physics experiments and the reactor core of the HT3R reactor.  The summer research students are delving deeply into an advanced radiation simulation programs created at Los Alamos National Laboratory.  

David Watts, left, president of the University of Texas of the Permian Basin, introduces Kay Ketzenberger, bachelor of social work program director at UTPB, as they announce the BSW program's accreditation by the Council on Social Work Education.

Joshua Scheide|Odessa Ameircan

 

UTPB earns accreditation for Social Worker program

Standing in front of eight students currently enrolled in its social worker program, UTPB President David Watts announced Thursday that the university had finally received accreditation from the Council on Social Work Education. 

“UTPB is the only university within 140 miles that has nationally accredited social worker program.” Watts said.

UTPB has been working toward a full accreditation for the past four years.

In September 2003, the Texas Legislature restricted licensing to accredited schools.