Nano Nuclear Energy (NNE) said Wednesday it has partnered with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign to build its first on-campus KRONOS micro modular reactor for research purposes.

The university will assist with licensing, selecting the site, community engagement, and conducting research on the reactor, the company said.

Nano Nuclear will conduct geological studies at the site to prepare for submitting construction permits to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, it added.

Both Nano Nuclear and the university will cooperate in securing regulatory licenses, designing the reactor, engaging stakeholders, and training personnel, according to the company.

The university will handle regulatory and public engagements, while Nano Nuclear will focus on the design, construction, and commercialization of the KRONOS reactor, the company added.