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- Professor Yasumasa FUJII
For Prospective StudentsStudy at the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Management
Yasumasa FUJII Professor
Study05
It is important to study power stations other than nuclear power stations in order to make accurate comparisons.
Which areas of nuclear power can students learn about in your laboratory?
We examine the position of nuclear power generation technology in society. We study its effectiveness using computer programs to determine whether it is truly useful. Our activities include calculations of the most economical power supply structure that takes scenarios such as demand and supply, balance of energy or cost, as well as reduction of carbon dioxide emission into consideration. We also create simulations of how humanity can structure the energy system to most effectively respond to the global warming problem. While the opinion that nuclear power should be abolished is socially dominant today, our calculations indicate that it is more rational to use nuclear power. The strengths of nuclear power include being a stable and relatively cheap power supply and offering the absence of carbon dioxide emissions. As renewable energies such as solar power or wind power generation are attracting a significant amount of attention, we also assess whether they could supply 100% of the energy demand and, if so, how difficult it would be to achieve. To make an accurate comparison, it is important to study other types of power stations. As I was trained in the Department of Electrical Engineering, I tend to think from the perspective of electrical engineering. Even though our laboratory specializes in a branch of nuclear power, I’m confident that we understand the introduction potential of renewable energy better than any other laboratory in Japan.
What types of future paths (careers) are there for your students after their study?
As our research is focused on energy policies, future careers for the students include relevant governmental agencies and public research institutions, energy businesses in electricity or city gas, and private companies such as consulting. Additionally, future careers are not limited to nuclear power-related work. Our activities also include economic calculation and cost minimization that take risks into consideration using probability. Thus, the students can apply their skills in professions outside the energy field, including financial institutions such as banks, insurance companies, and trading companies.
Could you tell us what you think are the attractive aspects of the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Management?
I believe it is the fact that it teaches integrated engineering. While nuclear engineering requires you to study many fields, you can also say that you have an opportunity to learn many things. The teaching staff consists of individuals with various backgrounds, such as electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and architecture; therefore, one is introduced to ideas from many perspectives.
It is necessary to contemplate what we are going to do with nuclear energy and atomic energy. The government’s policy is to reduce dependence on nuclear power as much as possible. However, if the government decides to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 80% by 2050, thermal power generation is not an option. To obtain the necessary data to make predictions for such a future, and to make the correct decisions, knowledge of integral engineering is essential. It is a field that can play an important role in elucidating the future direction of Japan.
As I studied in the Department of Electrical Engineering before moving to the field of nuclear power, I often feel that nuclear power is complex and rich. Neutrons and nuclei react in so many different ways that it is impossible to learn them all. This makes nuclear power a particularly interesting field.
Could you give us a message for prospective students?
I recommend this department to students who are concerned about the energy problem. As I think that nuclear power stations represent an important technology that will decide the future of humanity, I think this is the best place for students to see witness this. If you only look at the aspect that nuclear power stations are dangerous and should be abolished, and remain ignorant, you may regret it after a few decades. We have not solved the problem of resource depletion, and something must be done. Though oil and coal may not run out immediately, it is true that we have fewer and fewer resources. I would like the students to study these issues and understand the importance of nuclear power stations.
