The Nuclear Scientist Who Discovered the Power of the Talmud

"Alvin Radkowsky is leaving." The rumor spread quickly through the U.S. Navy’s nuclear propulsion laboratory. In 1972 this unit stood at the forefront of the world’s most advanced technology. Its greatest achievement was the nuclear submarine Nautilus, the first of its kind, powered by a reactor that could operate for years without refueling.

For thirty four years, Dr. Alvin Radkowsky worked in the U.S. Navy’s nuclear energy program. He began as a student of two world famous physicists, Edward Teller, known as the father of the hydrogen bomb, and Karl Herzfeld. Over time he rose through the ranks until he became one of the program’s leading figures.

Radkowsky played a central role in designing the nuclear reactor that powered the Nautilus, an engineering breakthrough that became legendary. Admiral Herman Rickover had long dreamed of a nuclear powered submarine, but existing reactors were far too large. A standard reactor would have required a submarine the size of a small city, leaving the concept impractical for years.

Radkowsky succeeded in miniaturizing the reactor and turning it into a reliable engine suitable for submarines. His design principles later influenced the reactors used in nuclear powered aircraft carriers as well.

Because of his contributions, he was elected to the National Academy of Engineering, became a fellow of the American Nuclear Society, and received many professional honors.

Then, in 1972, he made a surprising decision. Radkowsky left his prestigious career in the United States and moved to Israel.

A Surprising Move to the Negev

Radkowsky did not settle in Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Instead, he chose the Negev desert and accepted a professorship at Ben Gurion University in Be’er Sheva. Although the position was respectable, it could not compare to the influence and opportunities he had left behind in America.

Many wondered why a scientist at the peak of his career would make such a decision.

Years later, more details became known. Radkowsky was a deeply committed religious Jew. His Hebrew name was Avraham Yitzhak HaKohen, and he lived a life of Torah observance alongside his scientific work.

During those years the young State of Israel was developing a highly secret project in Dimona. Radkowsky helped solve complex technical challenges that had puzzled nuclear scientists for years. One of his major contributions involved safer nuclear processes based on the element thorium. Much of his work remained classified, but his role was considered highly significant.

Israel made great efforts to bring the famous scientist to the country and to the Negev region in particular.

Torah and Science

When Radkowsky arrived in Israel, he was interviewed by major newspapers. His reputation as a pioneering nuclear scientist made his move national news.

When asked how he achieved so much, he gave a surprising answer:

"There is no better training for a scientist than studying the Talmud. The approach of the Talmud’s sages is highly scientific. They used scientific principles of thinking and problem solving. I believe that first and foremost a scientist must know how to pose the right questions, and in that regard there is nothing like the Talmud, which is filled with questions and challenges."

Close to the Steipler

While living in Israel, Radkowsky developed a close relationship with Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, known as the Steipler, one of the leading Torah sages of the generation.

He often visited the Steipler in Bnei Brak, prayed with him at the Lederman Synagogue, and continued growing in Torah alongside his scientific work.

Even later in life he remained active in research. In 2002 he founded Thorium Power, a company dedicated to developing advanced nuclear technology based on his innovative ideas.

Radkowsky’s life became a rare example of Torah and greatness combined in one person, demonstrating that deep faith and groundbreaking scientific achievement can exist side by side.