W5 | Early career researchers, knowledge retention and future developments in nuclear waste disposal and radiation protection
Early career researchers, knowledge retention and future developments in nuclear waste disposal and radiation protection
Main Session Organizers: Tuanny Cajuhi, Theresa Hennig, Vera Lay
Fri, 19 Sep, 11:55–13:15 (CEST)|Room Studio 1
Fri, 11:55
Radioactive waste disposal and related radiation protection is a sociotechnical challenge that demands resilience, intergenerational knowledge transfer, and interdisciplinary collaboration. A key aspect of ensuring the long-term safety and timely implementation of nuclear waste disposal strategies is empowering the next generation of researchers. Contributions from young researchers working in various aspects of radioactive waste management will be highlighted in this workshop to emphasize the importance of fostering resilience and knowledge continuity in an area where safety and timely decision-making play an important role. This workshop provides a platform for early career researchers to present their scientific work—from innovative geological explorations, developments in radiation measurements and protection, experimental and modeling works as well as engineering solutions — while also fostering interdisciplinary dialogue. By doing so, we seek to connect early career professionals and research field starters with each other and experienced scientists, create networking opportunities, and facilitate the exchange of knowledge. Contributions from recent strategies in knowledge management and competence retention round up the workshop to allow a comprehensive view that will help to ensure the long-term success and safety of nuclear waste disposal programs as well as appropriate knowledge transfer. Our workshop format includes a joint discussion fostered by (1) an impulse panel discussion of invited speakers involved in different fields and (2) short presentations from early career professionals and research field starters.

How can we ensure knowledge continuity in nuclear waste disposal and related radiation protection topics?

Join our interactive session on empowering early career researchers, fostering cross-generational dialogue, and shaping the future of knowledge retention in this critical field. 

With panelists from research, policy, and education, this workshop is for everyone committed to long-term safety and innovation.

 

Structure & Addressed Discussion Highlights 

I) Situation of Early Career Researchers (ECR): What motivates ECR to work/enter the field of nuclear waste management and radiation protection?

II) Knowledge Retention: How can knowledge be transferred between generations? What structures support ECRs?

III) Future Developments: What is missing in current frameworks? What structures or practices could support sustainable engagement and retention?

 

Our Panelists 

Alisia Jaros – Qualification Network

Prof. Dr. Christiane Stephan-Scherb – Education & Research

Arnjo Sittig – National Citizens Committee 

Dr. Moritz Ziegler – Early Career Network

 

You can share your perspective even before the session via

https://app.tedme.com?pin=WorkshopW5KnowledgeRetention

Session assets

Session materials

Speakers

  • Alisia Jaros, Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS), Germany
  • Christiane Stephan-Scherb, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany
  • Arnjo Sittig, NBG, Germany
  • Moritz Ziegler, Technical University Munich, Germany