Created by the United States during World War II, the Manhattan Project culminated in nuclear weapons that both when made, and subsequently used, were condemned by scientists and the broader public. However, nuclear research was still a burgeoning science with much to offer the world outside of the weapons it could produce. To take advantage of this growing field, the United States created the Atomic Energy Commission. Formed with the purpose to control and advance nuclear science, the Commission funded and oversaw research in this area. One of the sites they funded was the Oak Ridge Institute for Nuclear Studies (ORINS), a former Manhattan Project site. Outside of the research conducted at ORINS, they were also heavily involved in the Commision’s attempt to market atomic science to the American public. The aim of this research is to examine the Atomic Energy Commission’s involvement in nuclear research from 1945 to 1960, specific to the Oak Ridge Institute of Nuclear Studies to achieve an understanding of the power government wielded over research in nuclear science then, as it is the foundation of a relationship that still exists today. Analyzing primary source documents within the collection of Louis Pardue ORINS papers, 1945-1958, at the University of Kentucky Special Collections Research Center will provide necessary insight into how the Commission guided the actions of the Institute. As a subject that is still hotly debated, it is vital to understand the funding and mechanics that governs nuclear research in order to guide the future of this field towards a path that contributes positively to society.