The conference will consist of plenary presentations, panel discussions and poster sessions focused on topics within seven subject areas: utilizations and applications, operation and maintenance, new research reactor programmes, safety, security, fuel management and common management considerations. The meeting will also feature five side events, including a joint event with Women in Nuclear Global that will look at challenges and opportunities for women at research reactors.
“This conference is essential for addressing global challenges facing research reactor programmes, including how to ensure long-term sustainability,” said Khaled Toukan, Chairman of the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission and Conference Chair. “This collaboration strengthens the role of research reactors as valuable assets, advancing scientific progress and reaping benefits to individual Member States and the international community at large.”
Concerted efforts are needed for research reactors to continue delivering results globally and remain sustainable for decades to come. About 50% of the research reactors in operation have reached 50 years of age, with about 30% operating for 60 years. Robust life management programmes, which involve modernization and refurbishment activities, are necessary for safe operation and to ensure the ongoing availability of the wide range of products and services offered by research reactors.
Research reactors are also crucial for workforce development, serving as vital education and training centres for the next generation of nuclear scientists, engineers, and reactor operators. The IAEA estimates that upwards of 4 million professionals will be supporting the nuclear power industry by 2050, and with one-third of the existing workforce projected to retire by 2033, there will be a need for potentially more than one million new workers to enter the industry by then. The availability of training facilities, including research reactors is a key component of capacity building and human resource development.
The conference livestream is available here.
