Idaho State University and NuCube Energy Selected for the U.S. Department of Energy Launch Pad USA Program

The next generation of nuclear energy technology could soon be taking shape right in Pocatello. Idaho State University has officially requested authorization to host the NuCube Energy Advanced Research and Test Reactor on its campus, a move that would dramatically expand research opportunities in nuclear science and engineering.

Idaho State University and NuCube Energy have announced that their joint proposal was selected for the Nuclear Energy Launch Pad USA program, a new initiative that supports  the Department of Energy’s efforts to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear energy technologies. This selection grants ISU and NuCube access to federal infrastructure, technical expertise, and regulatory support to accelerate the siting, testing, and deployment of NuCube’s advanced nuclear reactor technology.

Managed by the National Reactor Innovation Center, the Nuclear Energy Launch Pad is  designed to reduce barriers to advanced reactor commercialization. It supports a coordinated pathway from project authorization through testing and operation.

“ISU is committed to ‘power Idaho’s energy future.’ Consistent with our Contract for Idaho, this partnership cements our national leadership role in the development of advanced nuclear technology. We appreciate the NuCube Energy partnership and the national recognition of ISU’s role in addressing nuclear research and workforce development demands,” said ISU President Robert W. Wagner.

The federal program follows nuclear focused presidential executive orders issued on May 23, 2025, when President Trump directed the Department of Energy to streamline reactor testing and launch a pilot program to fast-track licensing and commercialization of next generation reactors. Executive Order 14301 formally established this pathway to support innovations that strengthen United States leadership in nuclear energy.

Jim Widmann, dean of the ISU College of Science and Engineering, noted the educational benefits of the project.

"This project strengthens ISU's position as a national leader in nuclear energy workforce development and innovation," Widmann said. "Our students and researchers will gain access to a state-of-the-art reactor that will shape the future of the industry."

Designed by NuCube Energy, the reactor is an adaptation of the company’s commercial 4 MWth microreactor. The system employs TRISO fuel, recognized for its robust performance under extreme conditions, and uses heat pipe cooling to ensure passive safety performance.  The design provides a flexible platform for training, research, and technology development while demonstrating a clear path toward commercial deployment.

Dr. Cristian Rabiti, chief executive officer of NuCube Energy, views the partnership as a major step forward for the company.

“We are thrilled and deeply honored that the ISU Advanced Research and Test Reactor project has been accepted into the Nuclear Energy Launch Pad USA program," Rabiti said, noting that the acceptance serves as powerful third-party validation of the technical maturity, inherent safety, and versatility of our advanced reactor design. "The Launch Pad USA milestone gives us tremendous momentum toward our goal of siting, constructing, and operating our first full-scale demonstration reactor on the Idaho State University campus.”

Both teams will work closely with the U.S. Department of Energy, the National Reactor Innovation Center, local and regional stakeholders, tribal communities, and other entities to advance the project through development, authorization, and deployment. The project will include ongoing engagement with these communities to ensure transparency and shared understanding as development progresses.