Jeffrey S. Merrifield

Jeffrey S. Merrifield is a partner with Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP in Washington, DC. His practice focuses on energy regulatory issues, particularly in connection with the nuclear sector and advanced reactor technology. A former Commissioner of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (1998-2007), Mr. Merrifield championed the NRC’s efforts to risk-inform regulations and prepare the agency for potential new power reactor applications. He also served as acting NRC Chairman during the August 2003 blackout when nine nuclear reactors underwent emergency shutdowns, as well as during an emergency event that led to the first evacuation of an NRC–licensed site since Three Mile Island. In addition to his government experience, Mr. Merrifield previously worked as a senior executive for two of the largest providers of engineering and construction services to the energy industry. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Advanced Reactor Task Force of the Nuclear Infrastructure Council and was previously on the Board of Directors for the U.S. Ecology Corporation — one of the largest U.S. operators of both hazardous and low-level radioactive waste disposal facilities.