How to multitask when nuclear nonproliferation is on the line
New cognitive science research from Sandia shows that while maps can help you identify landmarks while being escorted, using one also limits situational awareness and knowledge of surroundings not on the map. This finding is one of several coming from a three-year project that paired cognitive scientists and nuclear safeguards experts to conduct human performance tests and develop recommendations for inspectors.
Marshaling resources to fight COVID-19
As Sandia and the nation came to terms with a new, socially distanced reality, researchers within the Labs’ Integrated Security Solutions Division were working to understand the biology of the novel coronavirus, learn how the human body responds to infection by SARS CoV-2 and model how COVID-19 spreads in a population.
Confronting COVID-19 and getting back to work — together
The novel approach of Integrated Service Delivery being practiced in several centers within Sandia’s Integrated Security Solutions Division was tested to its utmost this year, as departments had to suddenly figure out how to accommodate a remote workforce and then just as suddenly overcome dozens of challenges to bring people back to work safely on site.
California site expands footprint
To accommodate Sandia's significant increase in hiring to meet mission needs coupled with the need to ensure workforce safety amid the pandemic, leaders at the Livermore site are taking a multipronged approach, including continued telecommuting, creating flexible “kiosk hubs,” constructing new facilities and temporarily leasing office space near the campus.
A year of change
Lab News sat down for a conversation with Associate Labs Director Andy McIlroy, head of the Integrated Security Solutions Division, as he starts his second year in that role following a year permanently marked by a new reality for Sandia and the nation.
COVID-19 defense: Sandia’s in-depth approach
Sandia is taking an in-depth, layered approach to combating the spread of COVID-19. As the nation navigates through the COVID-19 global health crisis and as more people come on-site, we want our workforce to know what we do to prepare and what to expect.
COVID-19 came through the door
Despite following pandemic restrictions both in and outside his home, Associate Labs Director Scott Aeilts recently was diagnosed with COVID-19, following a visit from a family friend. Describing his experience, Scott discusses the important role adhering to Sandia's COVID-19 protocols plays in protecting the workforce.
Rose Gottemoeller: The importance of science diplomacy
Rose Gottemoeller spoke to Sandians in a video conference on July 28 in honor of the 25th anniversary of the Labs’ Cooperative Monitoring Center. The talk was part of Sandia’s National Security Speakers Series.
Weapon Intern Program graduates 25th class
Sandia’s Weapon Intern Program has graduated 25 classes in 22 years. The program was created in 1998 to accelerate the learning process and transfer decades of knowledge and experience in all phases of the nuclear weapon lifecycle, from experienced weaponeers to the new generation of stockpile stewards.
Sandia Science & Technology Park spurs economic growth
A new, independent report has concluded that Albuquerque’s Sandia Science & Technology Park contributed significantly to the local economy in 2018-19 by adding 310 jobs and generating increases in economic activity and tax revenue to both the city and the state.