Research reactors are catalysts for scientific and technological advancement. They are integral to the fulfilment of the IAEA’s mission to foster the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology, serving as instruments for education, and research and development. Through their unique capabilities, research reactors play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of nuclear physics, materials science and medicine. This in turn has further benefits for humankind, including, for example, the production of new radiopharmaceuticals.
Meanwhile, some nuclear newcomer countries are pursuing the development of their first research reactor facilities, which can serve as stepping stones towards future nuclear power programmes. In the nuclear domain, safety and security are paramount, and research reactors are no exception. The IAEA stands ready to support countries in fulfilling their national responsibilities to ensure the safety, security and the full optimization of their research reactors, from conception to decommissioning. It does this through coordinated research projects, expert missions, peer reviews, published guidance, planning tools and training. The IAEA is currently supporting more than 30 technical cooperation projects on research reactors, engaging countries from all over the world. These projects are as multifaceted as the uses of research reactors, ranging from enhancing the nuclear safety, utilization and operational performance of reactors, to developing a nuclear infrastructure for a country’s first research reactor.
More than 220 research reactors operate in 54 countries, and another 25 reactors are planned or under construction. Today’s global fleet is ageing, with the majority of reactors having already operated for more than 50 years. This can be managed, and the IAEA is helping countries to develop and implement plans to refurbish and modernize reactors so that they can continue to operate safely and effectively.
