Brian Rusnak
About Brian Rusnak
Brian Rusnak is a Member of the Scientific and Engineering Technical Staff at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, where he has worked since 1999. He has extensive experience in accelerator development, project management, and advanced modeling techniques, contributing to significant projects in the field of nuclear engineering and physics.
Work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Brian Rusnak has been a Member of the Scientific and Engineering Technical Staff at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory since 1999. In this role, he has directed up to 30 professional staff members and technicians across various projects. His work includes significant contributions to the development of superconducting electron and heavy ion accelerators, specifically for the International Linear Collider and the Rare Isotope Accelerator. He has managed project budgets reaching up to $7.2 million, demonstrating his capability in overseeing large-scale scientific initiatives.
Previous Experience at Los Alamos National Laboratory
Prior to his tenure at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Brian Rusnak worked at Los Alamos National Laboratory from 1986 to 1999. During his 13 years there, he served as a Scientific Staff Member, where he gained valuable experience in various scientific projects. His time at Los Alamos contributed to his extensive knowledge in neutron production targets and microwave test equipment.
Education and Expertise
Brian Rusnak holds a Bachelor's degree in Engineering Physics from the University of Michigan. He also earned a Master's degree in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he studied from 1982 to 1983. His educational background supports his expertise in 3D electromagnetic modeling using CST Studio, liquid helium cryogenics, and contamination control in class 100 clean rooms.
Project Leadership and Development
In his current role, Brian Rusnak has served as project leader for the development of a prototype fast neutron imaging system. He oversaw the integration of a commercial deuteron accelerator and a low-loss beam transport system. Additionally, he contributed to the development of a high average power, superconducting-accelerator-based free electron laser, showcasing his leadership in advanced scientific projects.