Neutron activation analysis in support of undergraduate research

Neutron activation analysis (NAA) is one of the best venues for experimental research training and education for undergraduate students in nuclear science and engineering. NAA covers a multitude of aspects including radiological safety, nuclear instrumentation, experimental design, data analysis, report writing and oral presentations. Over the past decade undergraduate research at the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory has remained a major focus for education and training and for graduate recruiting. The NAA facilities have been used not only by undergraduate students at The University of Texas at Austin. but also from local and foreign universities, two Historically Black College or University (HBCU)'and lAEA fellows. A comprehensive overview of the projects undertaken from previous and recent projects, and the Impact NAA has had on the undergraduate students for further career opportunities in industry and graduate school is described. (author)