The Nuclear Challenge (TNC) is a campaign led by University of Oxford spinout OxCo, in collaboration with Oxford University Innovation and the Supporters of Nuclear Energy (SONE) to build public trust and confidence in nuclear energy — combining academic rigour with modern communication that inspires the next generation.
THE STATE OF AFFAIRS
Public sentiment toward nuclear energy remains fragile — historically, even isolated incidents have caused dramatic collapses in support, halting progress, shutting down reactors, and setting the sector back by decades at immense cost. Despite recent improvements in perception, this progress is precarious — easily shaken by fear or misinformation, leaving global momentum vulnerable. Sustained positive sentiment is vital, as it directly influences political will, regulatory ease, investment confidence, and the appeal of nuclear careers for young people.
MOMENTS THAT MATTER
When Japan’s Prime Minister symbolically spread Fukushima soil in his own garden, the world should have noticed. But the story barely travelled on social media. TNC is determined to ensure that important, hopeful moments like these are seen and shared —
A GENERATION READY TO LEAD
Young people are open to new ideas and will live longest with the consequences of today’s energy choices. TNC is the first global, pro-nuclear campaign designed to connect with ages 12–35. We’re helping them understand why nuclear matters — and giving them the tools to carry the message forward.
SMART, ACCESSIBLE CONTENT
Good arguments are grounded in science — but if they don’t reach people, they’re lost. TNC creates thought provoking content that’s easy to share. We meet people where they’re at: on their phones, in their feeds, and in everyday conversations.
We are in a unique position to lobby the world’s foremost debating chamber, The Oxford Union, to host a globally relevant debate on nuclear energy.
DEBATE AND DIALOGUE
Facts matter — but so does the courage to stand up for them. Public conversations are a vital step in removing the taboo and winning over the masses. TNC is bringing together the most compelling voices and the most credible research, to give experts the chance to defend nuclear energy on the global stage.
Conversations in both public and informal settings provides the social proof neccessary to normalise discussion and generate compelling content that builds curiosity and the desire to learn more.
ENERGY AND YOUR LIFE
People care about scientific truths. But it’s vital they understand that nuclear is about creating reliable power, that fuels warmer homes, thriving businesses, healthier communities, a sustainable planet, and it paves the way for a brighter future for you, and your loved ones.
LEADERSHIP TEAM
THE NUCLEAR CHALLENGE is a collaboration between some of the world’s top nuclear scientists, industry experts and scientific communicators. This unique partnership gives us the credibility, creativity, and conviction to challenge fear with fact — and inspire a new era of nuclear confidence.
Professor Wade Allison
Professor Wade Allison is an Emeritus Professor of Physics at the University of Oxford and a leading voice in nuclear physics and radiation safety.
Baroness Olivia Bloomfield of Hinton Waldrist
Baroness Olivia Bloomfield is a Welsh Conservative life peer in the House of Lords, serving as Shadow Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales since 2024.
Harry McAlister
Harry McAlister is the Founder and CEO of Oxford University spinout OxCO and co-founder of The Nuclear Challenge.
Michelle Leslie
Michelle Leslie is a Senior Manager in Infrastructure and Capital Projects at Deloitte, with deep expertise in nuclear energy policy, communications, and sustainability.
Supporters of Nuclear Energy (SONE)
Founded in 1998, the Supporters of Nuclear Energy (SONE) is a UK-based advocacy group dedicated to championing nuclear power as a cornerstone of sustainable, secure energy for the future.
Oxford University Innovation
Oxford University Innovation (OUI) is the University of Oxford’s dedicated engine for transforming groundbreaking research into real-world impact, serving as its wholly-owned subsidiary for technology transfer and commercialization since its establishment.
OUR CLIENTS
