Open Source Nuclear Analysis Bootcamp

“Possibly one of the most rewarding and enjoyable professional experiences I've ever had.” 

––2025 OSINT Bootcamp participant

For decades, the Federation of American Scientists’ Nuclear Information Project has used open sources and satellite imagery analysis to develop the best available unclassified estimates of the status and trends of nuclear weapons worldwide. 

In the summer of 2026, the Federation of American Scientists—in partnership with the Stanley Center for Peace and Security—will host the second iteration of its week-long intensive workshop (or “bootcamp”) to teach the next generation of open-source nuclear analysts. This bootcamp aims to help lower the barriers to entry into this field, democratize open-source research practices, and foster a collegial community of experts among successive cohorts. 

At this highly interactive bootcamp, you will work directly with FAS team members and external experts to develop skills in open-source and satellite imagery analysis and collaborate with others in the cohort on short research projects during the week. 

Some examples of topics that will be covered include: 

• The basics, ethics, and communication of open-source analysis
• Nuclear secrecy and transparency
• Analyzing primary and secondary sources
• Filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and declassification requests
• Geolocation and satellite imagery analysis of nuclear-related sites
• Missile technology
• The nuclear fuel cycle

The 2026 bootcamp will be organized jointly with the Stanley Center for Peace and Security, which conducts research and publishes resources to support open source analysts working on nuclear risk reduction and develop their ethical decision-making practices.

The bootcamp will take place in Montreal, Canada, during the week of June 22 to 26, 2026, with a welcome dinner on June 21. Applicants must be able to fully participate in person for the full five days of the bootcamp. The host organizations will arrange and pay for hotel accommodations; nonrefundable, round-trip economy class airfare; and meals during the event

We expect that there will be significant interest in this bootcamp, and we will aim to construct a cohort that mixes proficiency levels with respect to different topics. In order to be eligible for this opportunity, your application must demonstrate how you intend to utilize the skills gained during this bootcamp in your work in the nuclear weapons field.

Qualifications:

• Geographic location and citizenship do not limit eligibility. 
• Bachelor’s degree. 
• Early- to mid-career professional (up to 8 years of experience).
• Working-level knowledge of nuclear weapons systems.
• Participants must have personal laptops.

Required application documents:

• Resume/CV
• Completed questionnaire 

Applications are due by 23:59 EST on March 15th.