Energy Unpacked Itinerary

For more details, contact ANS President Jonah Lau.

Energy Unpacked Speaker Biographies

Mark Nelson is the founder and managing partner of Radiant Energy Group, a leading consultancy dedicated to shaping a sustainable future through data-driven insights. With a Master of Philosophy in Nuclear Engineering from Cambridge University, Mark brings a wealth of expertise to the clean energy industry and environmental organizations worldwide. His analytical prowess and strategic vision have garnered attention from prestigious publications such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and prominent European papers, showcasing his impact on shaping discourse around clean energy solutions. As a distinguished member of the United States delegation to COP-28, Mark's contributions extend to global climate negotiations, highlighting his commitment to driving meaningful change on national and international platforms. Based in Chicago, Mark is committed to driving meaningful change toward a low-carbon, high-energy future that prioritizes environmental sustainability and economic growth.

Dr. Lefteri Tsoukalas is a distinguished Professor renowned for his pioneering work in nuclear engineering and computer science. Dr. Tsoukalas holds a Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering/Computer Science, an M.S. in Nuclear Engineering, and a B.S. in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois. His research focus encompasses neurofuzzy methodologies for complex power systems modeling, diagnostics, and control; intelligent instrumentation systems and sensors; man-machine interface; and autonomous systems and robotics. Dr. Tsoukalas has served in advisory and consulting positions for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (ASTAR) of the Government of Singapore, and the United States Department of Energy. He has been recognized by being inducted as a Fellow of the American Nuclear Society and awarded the Humboldt Prize, Germany's highest honor for international scientists. Tsoukalas also holds a prominent role as a member of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy, where he contributes to efforts to accelerate the innovation and adoption of trusted technologies and clean energy sources to counter the weaponization of technology by authoritarian regimes to safeguard global freedoms.

Dr. Hitesh Bindra is a renowned nuclear engineer with a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Hisexpertise spans nuclear reactor safety, thermal-fluid sciences, and energy storage. Dr. Bindra has made significant contributions to the field through peer-reviewed conference proceedings and patents, notably in thermal storage and mass transfer applications. Hisresearch at the CUNY Energy Institute and experiences at eSolar Inc. and Caterpillar Inc. highlight his proficiency in thermal engineering and fluid mechanics. As an esteemed faculty member previously at Kansas State University and now at Purdue University, he directs the Nuclear Energy Systems Transport (NuEST) laboratory, focusing on advancing nuclear energy technologies and sustainable energy solutions. Dr. Bindra's work is pivotal in developing energy storage technologies for enhancing nuclear energy dispatchability, demonstrating his commitment to integrating clean energy systems. His professional affiliations include the American Nuclear Society and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, underscoring his prominent role in the energy sector. Dr. Bindra's diverse industrial and academic background showcases his dedication to pioneering advancements in nuclear engineering and sustainable energy.