Anderson began his career as a physicist at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, where he worked on the development of nuclear reactors. His work at Oak Ridge was instrumental in the advancement of nuclear technology, and he quickly rose through the ranks to become the director of the laboratory's Reactor Division.
In 1955, Anderson was appointed as the Assistant General Manager for Reactor Development at the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), the federal agency responsible for regulating the nuclear industry. In this role, he oversaw the development of the country's nuclear power program, including the construction of the first commercial nuclear power plant.
Anderson's work at the AEC earned him a reputation as a leading expert in nuclear technology, and in 1958 he was appointed as the Deputy General Manager of the Commission. In this position, he was responsible for the overall management of the AEC's operations, including its research and development programs, regulatory activities, and international affairs.
In 1961, Anderson left the AEC to join the private sector, where he served as the President of the Atomics International division of North American Aviation. At Atomics International, he oversaw the development of advanced nuclear reactors and fuel processing technologies.
In 1964, Anderson was appointed as the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Atomic Energy, a position he held until 1966. In this role, he was responsible for the Department of Defense's nuclear weapons program, including the development, production, and control of nuclear weapons.
Throughout his career, Anderson was recognized for his contributions to the field of nuclear physics. He was a fellow of the American Physical Society and the American Nuclear Society, and he received numerous awards for his work, including the E.O. Lawrence Award for his contributions to nuclear technology.
In addition to his work in nuclear physics, Anderson was also a dedicated public servant. He served on numerous advisory committees and boards, and he was a strong advocate for the peaceful use of atomic energy.
Edwin A. Anderson Jr.'s career was marked by his commitment to advancing the field of nuclear physics and his dedication to public service. His work played a key role in the development of nuclear technology in the United States, and his contributions to the field continue to be recognized today.
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