The principal objective of the Integrated Project NF-PRO is to establish the scientific and technical basis for evaluating the safety function "containment and minimisation of release" of the near-field of a geological repository for high-level radioactive waste and spent fuel. To this end, NF-PRO will investigate dominant processes and process couplings affecting the isolation of nuclear waste within the near-field and apply and develop conceptual and mathematical models for predicting the source-term release of radio nuclides from the near-field to the far-field. Results and conclusions of experimental and modelling work will be integrated in performance assessment. To understand the performance of the overall near-field system, an adequate insight in both the performance of the individual near-field sub-systems and their interactions is essential. Accordingly, NF-PRO has been structured in five Research and Technology Development Components (further referred to as RTD Components) each representing a major near-field sub-system. In particular, RTD Components 1 to 4 address key processes controlling dissolution of and release from the waste matrix, chemical processes taking place in the Engineered Barrier System (EBS),the thermo-hydromechanical (THM) evolution of the EBS and the characteristics and the evolution of the excavation disturbed zone (EDZ), respectively. Process couplings and integration in performance assessment are dealt within RTD Component 5. Knowledge management and the exploitation and the dissemination of results represent key elements within NF-PRO. Component 6 brings together all activities concerning training (including knowledge management and transfer).In addition to the scientific-technical objectives, the consortium will make the acquired data, knowledge and expertise available and accessible to the broad scientific community, use its expertise for public information and promote knowledge and technology transfer through training.