Support for careers in the nuclear field

Special attention is to be devoted to the further implementation, in the nuclear and relevant medical and industrial sectors, of initiatives to attract new talent in the nuclear field and develop competences and expertise beyond the academic curricula. This could be achieved through further proposals of 'Euratom Fission Training Schemes', based on ECTS and ECVET mechanisms and complemented by setting up a strong grant programme to support the participation of students in nuclear training programmes in the EU. These programmes would relate to nuclear technology, safety and radiation protection and address the integration of students and bright young researchers into Euratom-supported research projects. Proposals should cover periods between six months and two years. The aim is to respond to the needs of the nuclear industry, regulatory bodies and TSOs. Also important are the so-called nuclear activities of proximity, which include medical applications, the relevant non-nuclear industrial applications and the transport of radioactive materials. Links should be established with the 'European Nuclear Education Network' (ENEN) and the different Euratom fission science and technology platforms. In line with the strategy for EU international cooperation in research and innovation (COM(2012)497), international cooperation is encouraged and will be considered during the evaluation.

The Commission considers that proposals requesting a contribution from Euratom of between EUR 2 and 3 million would allow this specific challenge to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of proposals requesting other amounts.

This action aims at addressing the difficulties encountered with maintaining and renewing an adequate number of well-educated and trained nuclear researchers and professionals, especially in view of expected high retirement and low renewal rates in countries with a strong nuclear tradition and of the growing need for further specialised training in emerging nuclear energy countries.

This action will revive the interest of the young generation for careers in the nuclear sector (in particular, reactor safety, geological disposal, radiation protection).