United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission perspectives on technical and scientific support organizations

The Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research (RES) of the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is a technical and scientific support organization (TSO). As such, RES supplies the technical tools, analytical models and experimental data needed to support the NRC's regulatory decision making mandate. As a TSO, RES does not conduct research for the single purpose of developing improved technologies, a function that is more appropriately that of the nuclear industry. The NRC also does not conduct research for the purpose of continually enhancing safety. Rather, RES conducts research in support of the licensing and regulatory process to confirm the methods and data generated by the industry to ensure that adequate safety is maintained. In addition to conducting confirmatory research, as a TSO, RES has a role in beyond the horizon, or forward looking, research. To provide the technical bases for future regulatory decisions, RES looks where the regulated industry is moving and conducts exploratory research as needed to prepare the NRC to respond to industry requests and initiatives. In addition to regulating the commercial use of radioactive materials to protect public health and safety and to protect the environment, the NRC has responsibility for protecting and safeguarding nuclear materials and nuclear power plants in the interest of national security. Thus, while its primary focus is on supporting the licensing and regulatory process, the research conducted by and for the NRC plays an important role in supporting broad, Government wide initiatives associated with national security. (author)