Njema Frazier

Njema J. Frazier is a member of the US Senior Executive Service who currently serves as the Associate Technical Director for Nuclear Weapon Programs at the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board (DNFSB). In this capacity, she leads the technical directorate that assesses safety measures and operational protocols at the Department of Energy’s defense nuclear facilities, with a focus on nuclear weapon programs.

Her office also provides expert advice on nuclear safety measures designed to ensure the protection of public health and the environment; safety recommendations and policies aimed at enhancing the safety and security of nuclear weapon facilities; and Board engagements with various stakeholders, including federal agencies, industry experts, and the public, to address safety concerns and promote best practices in nuclear facility operations.

Prior to joining DNFSB, Njema served in the Office of the Undersecretary for Nuclear Security and Administrator, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA). Within the NNSA front office, she was the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement. Over her 23 years at NNSA, Njema led high-profile research and development programs, including serving as the Director of the Office of Experimental Sciences, a $1.3B weapons science R&D portfolio in NNSA, and Acting Director of the $550M Office of Inertial Confinement Fusion.

Njema holds an MS in Physics and Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics from Michigan State University, as well as a B.S. in Physics from Carnegie Mellon University. Her extensive experience in nuclear physics and her leadership roles within the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) significantly contribute to her executive excellence in overseeing the safety of the nation’s nuclear weapon programs at DNFSB.