13 Jul (NucNet): Allison Macfarlane has been sworn in as 15th chairman of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
Ms Macfarlane, an expert in nuclear waste issues, holds a doctorate in geology from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Most recently she was an associate professor of environmental science and policy at George Mason University in Virginia.
Ms Macfarlane, 48, is the third woman to serve as chair of the NRC. She will serve a term ending on 30 June 2013.
Former chairman Gregory Jaczko announced his intention to resign in May, after his replacement had been nominated and confirmed by the Senate.
Last month, an investigation by the NRC’s inspector-general found cases in which Mr Jaczko failed to support an “open and collaborative work environment”.
The inspector-general’s report – which covered various allegations against Mr Jaczko – also found he did not exceed his authority following last year’s nuclear plant accident in Japan.
