Lectures and Seminars

 

Lecture (LE): Science for Nuclear Arms Control

This course introduces scientific contributions to nuclear arms control with an emphasis on physics. It addresses the two main aspects that science plays here. First, the role of science and technology in nuclear proliferation is studied. This includes for instance the production of uranium and plutonium, as well as studying the physics principles behind nuclear warheads and missiles. Second, verification tools to assess compliance with nonproliferation and disarmament agreements are examined. In addition to general verification approaches, various detection techniques are studied in this context, for example gamma and neutron measurements or satellite imagery. Furthermore, relevant computer simulations are introduced.

Seminar (SE): Approaches to Current Arms Control Challenges

Bilateral or multilateral arms control agreements are restrictions on weapon systems to increase stability. They exist both for weapons of mass destruction and conventional weapons, which will be discussed. By examining the strengths and weaknesses of existing arms control agreements, this seminar addresses the challenges they face in today’s international security environment. This includes both policy topics as well as technical aspects. The latter includes evaluating the verifiability of agreements by examining monitoring technologies and concepts. Furthermore, the seminar will explore arms control measures for the future that are being discussed today, in particular to address emerging military technologies or to enable future aims such as nuclear disarmament that require new measures.