In recent years, various institutions have come to the conclusion that expertise in radiation research and radiation protection in Germany needs to be strengthened. An analysis by the then Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMU) called for, among other things, the creation of a nationwide institution for further education and training (BMU 2021). The Commission on Radiological Protection (SSK) stated that efforts must be made to maintain existing expertise in some research areas and saw signs of worrying deficits in others (SSK 2021). Recently, the SSK emphasised that knowledge transfer should reach a wide variety of target groups and that corresponding events should be offered via a central institution in a target group-oriented manner and supplemented by missing offers (SSK 2023).

Consequently, on request of the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV), the office of the Radiation Protection Qualification Network was set up by the BfS Staff Unit "Future of Radiation Protection" in July 2023. The aim of the Qualification Network is to strengthen radiation protection expertise in Germany. To this end, the need for expertise in radiation protection is to be determined, existing qualification programmes highlighted, possible deficits identified and solutions for improvement developed. In 2024, the office approached stakeholders who might benefit from the work of the Qualification Network. Young academics and early career researchers can especially benefit from the activities of the network, as they can not only network with potential employers and like-minded people, but can also get an overview on existing qualification programmes and make use of them. The overarching idea of the network is to share knowledge through the active participation of those involved, to pool the need for training and to work towards closing any gaps that may exist.

After an Open Call to encourage participation, a digital kick-off-event was organized. During this event, participants were asked to prioritize the topics they had previously suggested. On this basis, project teams formed in March 2025. Currently, the network includes about 60 participating institutions or associations, e.g. ministries and authorities, research institutions, medical facilities, companies, providers of training and further education formats, and more.

This contribution presents the Qualification Network, describes initial activities and plans for 2025 and beyond.

Literature

BMU (2021) URL: https://www.bmuv.de/WS7168

SSK (2021) URL: https://www.ssk.de/SharedDocs/Beratungsergebnisse/DE/2021/2021-06-09_Stgn_Kompetenzerhalt.html

SSK (2023) URL: https://www.ssk.de/SharedDocs/Beratungsergebnisse/DE/2023/2023-09-12_Empf_Kompetenzerhalt_Massnahmen.html

How to cite: Jaros, A., Simon, L., and Rühm, W.: Radiation Protection Qualification Network - Promoting the maintenance and development of competence in radiation protection in Germany, Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-76, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-76, 2025.

Since its foundation in 2017 the Federal Company for Radioactive Waste Disposal (BGE) is responsible for implementing and performing the site selection procedure in Germany. While the site selection is expected to be completed before the middle of this century, the construction and operation of the deep geological repository will take several decades more, until the repository can be finally sealed. This long-lasting and complex project requires a substantial amount of work force from very different disciplines. It is not always guaranteed that the experts needed will be available. In Germany, the shortage of skilled workers is today an important topic with respect to the economic power. This motivated the BGE from the beginning to establish close collaborations with different universities. These cooperations involve mainly the support in lecturing and the joint supervision of Master’s and Bachelor’s theses but also dissertations. Numerous students and PhD researchers have been successfully trained within the last years. The topics cover various areas of geoscience, engineering, material science, political and social science and several more.

By today, formal cooperation-contracts exist with the Technische Universität Clausthal, RWTH Aachen, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg and Leibniz Universität Hannover. However, this is not exclusive; the BGE would welcome it to sign additional cooperation agreements with other interested universities in the future.

BGE’s activities with respect to a sustainable strategy towards the availability of experts in nuclear waste management will be shown based on several examples.

How to cite: Rühaak, W. and Seidel, L.: BGE's activities for a sustainable education in nuclear waste management in Germany, Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-137, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-137, 2025.

The Decay Days (Deep gEologiCAl repositorY Days) represent a unique network initiated to foster open scientific exchange among early-career researchers working in the field of nuclear waste disposal. The idea originated from the need for a platform that enables honest discussions about scientific challenges, methodological approaches, and the individual experiences of young professionals – beyond the formalities and institutional frameworks of conventional conferences.

The first Decay Days took place in Potsdam from 02.-04. September in 2020. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the event had to be adapted to a hybrid format, combining digital and in-person participation. The second edition was held in Mont Terri, Switzerland, from September 21 to 23, 2022. The third and most recent Decay Days was hosted in Braunschweig from the 26.-29. September 2023, once again bringing together young scientists from various institutions. For the 3. Edition of the Decay Days the organizers changed, maintaining the continuity and spirit of the initiative after the previous organizers were unable to take over the planning once again after they planned the Decay Days in 2020 and 2022. At each event, keynote speakers from multiple international institutions delivered presentations on their research, whilst also participants had time to present their own work. After Mont Terri and Braunschweig, no editions were planned for 2024 or 2025 due to limited organizational resources and funding constraints.

The success of the Decay Days lies in its informal yet scientific focus. It offers early-career scientists and PhD researchers a rare opportunity for open dialogue – scientifically and personally – on what works well in their research and where challenges remain. The event deliberately avoids formal hierarchies, extensive moderation, or elaborate catering in order to maintain a relaxed atmosphere conducive to genuine exchange.

However, organizing the Decay Days comes with substantial challenges. There is no permanent financial structure behind the initiative, and the aspiration to remain independent of institutional sponsors (such as regulatory bodies or waste management organizations) often conflicts with the financial reality. Invited keynote speakers require honoraria, venues cost money, and the time invested by organizers – who typically plan the event alongside full-time research obligations – must also be considered as a form of personal contribution.

Looking ahead, the sustainability of the Decay Days depends on establishing a more resilient organizational framework. Proposals are being developed to secure targeted funding and there is the idea to form a permanent coordinating committee consisting of junior scientists from different institutions engaged in radioactive waste disposal. This would enable a better distribution of responsibilities, define clear roles, and reduce the organizational burden on individuals – ultimately allowing the Decay Days to grow while preserving its core values of openness, independence, and peer-driven scientific exchange.

How to cite: Johnen, M. and Friedenberg, L.: The Decay Days: History, Purpose, Challenges, and Future Perspectives, Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-173, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-173, 2025.

How to cite: Gehrke, A., Tillmann, S., El Fatihi, H., Javanmard, H., Rimando, J., and Schiffmann, S.: The Next Generation Network of IGSC - building a platform for the next generation of safety case professionals , Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-174, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-174, 2025.

In 2025, the European Nuclear Society Young Generation Network (ENS YGN) celebrates three decades of empowering students and young professionals in the nuclear field across Europe. Since its foundation in 1995, ENS YGN has grown into a vibrant and influential network, representing approximately 4000 members in 21 European countries. It has played a pivotal role in fostering cross-border collaboration, promoting knowledge exchange, and inspiring the next generation of nuclear professionals.

The visions of ENS YGN are diverse: to facilitate professional development, encourage innovation, promote leadership, and build a strong sense of community among young people in nuclear science and technology. The network achieves these goals through a variety of initiatives, including the triannual Core Committee Meetings (CCMs), where representatives from national YGNs gather to share best practices, coordinate activities, and shape the network’s strategic direction.

One of the flagship events of ENS YGN is the European Nuclear Young Generation Forum (ENYGF), held biennially. This forum brings together hundreds of young professionals and students for a week of technical sessions, workshops, cultural exchange, and networking. It serves as a platform for showcasing innovation, discussing policy, and strengthening international ties. In collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), ENS YGN collaborates in hosting the NEM School (Nuclear Energy Management School) in parallel to ENYGF, which has been running since 2021. This programme equips future leaders of national YGNs with essential skills in nuclear governance, communication, and strategic planning, reinforcing the network’s commitment to leadership development and capacity building. Also since 2021, ENS YGN facilitates the European edition of Innovation for Nuclear (I4N). The annual competition encourages creative thinking and foster innovation in nuclear technologies, applications, or systems among young professionals and students throughout all disciplines.

At the national level, individual YGNs organise a wide range of activities tailored to their local contexts. These include technical visits to nuclear facilities, national conferences, public outreach campaigns, and community-building events. Many national networks also engage in digital outreach, such as podcasts and webinars, to broaden their impact and reach new audiences. ENS YGN also collaborates with international organisations and stakeholders to amplify the voice of young professionals in global nuclear discourse. Through these partnerships, the network contributes to shaping the future of the industry while ensuring that the perspectives of younger generations are heard and valued.

As the nuclear sector faces challenges related to sustainability, innovation, and public perception, the role of ENS YGN remains more relevant than ever. By connecting and inspiring young professionals, the network not only supports individual career development but also contributes to the long-term resilience and vitality of the European nuclear industry.

How to cite: Kozlowski, A., Vazquez-Rodriguez, C., and Tacanho Marques, R.: European Nuclear Society Young Generation Network–30 years of connecting students and young professionals , Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-175, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-175, 2025.

The EURAD-2 Knowledge Management (KM) programme is strategically designed to address the critical challenge of the competence generation gap in the field of radioactive waste management (RWM). Its overarching objective is to ensure the sustained availability of a sufficiently skilled, competent, and qualified workforce across Europe. By aligning resources effectively, the programme aims to maintain and enhance the capabilities required to support the safe and responsible management of radioactive waste.

A key component of the KM programme is its commitment to supporting Member States at varying stages of progress in implementing the Council Directive 2011/70/Euratom. Through structured knowledge transfer mechanisms, the programme facilitates the dissemination of expertise from more advanced national programmes to those less developed, thereby promoting cohesion and mutual advancement within the European RWM community. In addition, knowledge transfer to the next generation of experts is crucial.

Therefore, the KM programme incorporates targeted initiatives to foster the next generation of RWM professionals. A dedicated mobility programme provides financial support for young scientists to participate in international exchanges, such as conferences, internships, and training courses. Furthermore, efforts are underway to implement a structured mentoring programme, aimed at facilitating intergenerational knowledge transfer and professional development.

Collectively, these initiatives reflect EURAD-2's commitment to building a resilient and future-ready RWM workforce through strategic knowledge management and collaborative capacity building.

How to cite: Belmans, N.: In support of the Young Generation - Competence building in EURAD-2, Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-178, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-178, 2025.

The International Association of Hydrogeologists (IAH) is a scientific and educational charitable organisation for scientists, engineers, water managers and other professionals working in the fields of groundwater resource planning, management and protection. Its mission is to further the understanding, wise use and protection of groundwater resources throughout the world. The Early Career Hydrogeologists’ Network (ECHN) is an official network of IAH, providing a forum for hydrogeologists at the start of their professional or academic careers and promoting their involvement in IAH affairs.

First steps towards the formation of this network were taken at the 38^th IAH Congress in Krakow (Poland) in September 2010, where the first young/early career hydrogeologists’ session was held. Further to this meeting, a group of junior hydrogeologists teamed up for the Early Career Hydrogeologists Network. Originally intended to support the young hydrogeologists below the age of 35, the network now speaks up for those at the start of their professional careers in hydrogeology irrespective of their age. The professional background of the members ranges from academic/scientific to governmental and industrial.

One of the main goals of IAH is to improve the understanding of groundwater issues and to support its better management. To achieve this in a sustainable way, those at the start of their professional careers need to be involved into IAH affairs as early as possible. A well-established international network of early career hydrogeologists and their support are the keystone for a successful and forward-looking IAH.

The ECHN focuses on information sharing, networking and strengthening the status of early career hydrogeologists within IAH. The long-term objectives of the Early Career Hydrogeologists Network are: 1) To promote the involvement of hydrogeologists at the start of their professional careers into IAH structures (e. g. in Commissions and Networks), 2) To enhance the information sharing possibilities for early career hydrogeologists, and to provide a support network for members to discuss and develop ideas or schemes (e. g. by a web-based forum), 3) To preserve competence by a productive exchange between junior and senior hydrogeologists (e. g. a by mentoring program), 4) To bring forward advanced training possibilities (e. g. by virtual sessions as well as master-classes at conferences), and 5) To enhance the social and professional network of the early career hydrogeologists (e. g. by specific events at conferences).

How to cite: Flügge, J.: Networking for the wise use of groundwater resources throughout the world: The Early Career Hydrogeologists’ Network (ECHN) of IAH , Third interdisciplinary research symposium on the safety of nuclear disposal practices, Berlin, Germany, 17–19 Sep 2025, safeND2025-177, https://doi.org/10.5194/safend2025-177, 2025.