USC Aiken Launches $66M Research Center for Nuclear Science and Machine Learning

A new 63,000-square-foot research center has just opened its doors at USC Aiken. The $66 million building marks a big step forward for nuclear science and machine learning studies.

"Students and faculty will now be able to engage directly with cutting-edge projects, alongside renowned scientists and industry partners," said USC Aiken Chancellor Dan Heimmermann, according to SC Daily Gazette.

Top officials came to mark the opening. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cut the ribbon with Senator Lindsey Graham and Representative Joe Wilson watching. Just 15 miles away sits the Savannah River National Lab, making this spot perfect for mixing school studies with real-world work.

Money came mostly from federal funding, while USC Aiken gave the ground to build on. Senator Graham pushed through $50 million in 2020 and 2021 to make it happen.

Up to 100 scientists will study clean power, smart machines, and better practices of manufacturing. Students can work with big companies and the nuclear site while still in school.

Wright shared news about plans for more tech at the Savannah River Site. They might add a big computer center and a power plant needing 200 megawatts. "These data centers are going to be what drives the advancement of science," he said to SC Daily Gazette.