Scientists from the Air Force Technical Applications Center are collaborating with professors and students at the University of Central Florida with a goal of enhancing research and workforce development in nuclear science. This partnership, which took place during the fall 2025 semester under an Educational Partnership Agreement, enabled Air Force experts to share practical applications of radiochemistry and nuclear forensics with UCF students.
Jonathan Holton, chief of AFTAC’s research and development relationships branch, and 1st Lt. Piper Gray, a nuclear physicist and chemistry team lead, delivered presentations to chemistry students studying under Associate Professor Vasileios Anagnostopoulos, who heads UCF’s Nuclear Regulatory Commission fellowships program.
The presentations highlighted AFTAC’s role in nuclear treaty monitoring, global nuclear forensics, and radiochemistry laboratory work. Students engaged in discussions about radiation safety, lab analysis technology, career prospects, and the intricacies of handling radioactive materials in federal science roles.
Dr. Matthew Loving, AFTAC’s scientific technology information officer, emphasized the objective of encouraging students to pursue careers in science and public service through such collaborations. He stated, “This collaboration enables our center to benefit from the advanced research and expertise of academic institutions, while offering universities the opportunity to tackle real-world challenges and utilize unique government facilities and resources.”
Following the seminar, students and Air Force personnel visited UCF’s radiochemistry lab, mass spectrometry facility, and materials characterization center. Anagnostopoulos emphasized that the partnership helps prepare students for significant roles connected to national security, asserting that the collaboration with the Air Force Technical Applications Center is a strategic investment in the nation’s future security.
AFTAC is located at Patrick Space Force Base and serves as the country’s nuclear treaty monitoring center.
