Young Women in IAEA Fellowship Gain Hands-On Experience at Nuclear Security School

Now in its sixth edition since 2020, the school has trained around 230 fellows to date, nurturing a new generation of women leaders in nuclear science, policy, and regulation.

Forty-one young women from across the globe — all participants in the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme (MSCFP) — recently took part in the International School on Nuclear Security in Vienna, gaining vital insights into the systems, principles, and technologies that underpin global nuclear safety and security.

The two-week programme, held at the IAEA headquarters, forms part of the agency’s broader effort to empower women in the nuclear field and build a pipeline of skilled professionals capable of addressing the complex security challenges of the modern nuclear landscape.

Now in its sixth edition since 2020, the school has trained around 230 fellows to date, nurturing a new generation of women leaders in nuclear science, policy, and regulation.

Bridging Theory and Practice

“The school is designed to spark curiosity — to help tomorrow’s experts see how regulations tie into practice — and to provide a comprehensive overview of key aspects of nuclear security,” explained Marina Labyntseva, Head of the IAEA’s Education and Training Development Unit within the Division of Nuclear Security.

“Through each activity and discussion, we aim to provide clarity — not just on what nuclear security is, but why it matters for every single country,” she added.

The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of nuclear security disciplines, including the international legal framework, physical protection of nuclear materials, transport security, detection and response to nuclear threats, and information and computer security. The programme also highlights the importance of cultivating a nuclear security culture, ensuring that participants understand the ethical, legal, and operational dimensions of protecting nuclear assets.

A Global, Interdisciplinary Cohort

This year’s participants hailed from 37 countries, representing an impressive diversity of professional and academic backgrounds — from physics, engineering, and environmental science to diplomacy, law, and information technology.

The group included students, research assistants, diplomats, regulators, and technology specialists, all brought together by a shared goal: to contribute to the peaceful and secure use of nuclear technology. The varied experiences of the participants fostered lively debates and cross-disciplinary collaboration throughout the course.

“Such diversity is essential,” said one of the programme coordinators. “Nuclear security is inherently interdisciplinary — it requires the collaboration of scientists, policymakers, and communicators who can bridge gaps between technology, law, and international cooperation.”

Hands-On Learning and Technical Visits

Beyond classroom learning, participants engaged in practical exercises and technical visits, experiencing firsthand how the IAEA’s nuclear security operations function in real-world contexts.

The fellows observed live demonstrations at the IAEA’s Nuclear Security Training and Demonstration Centre, where they learned how advanced equipment is used to detect illicit trafficking of radioactive materials and secure nuclear facilities. They also toured the Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC), which serves as the IAEA’s global hub for coordinating responses to radiological and nuclear emergencies.

“The school combines theoretical knowledge with applied learning,” Labyntseva said. “Participants not only understand the global policy frameworks but also see how technology, field operations, and human expertise come together in protecting nuclear materials.”

Voices from the Participants

For many of the fellows, the experience was transformative. “This programme greatly enriched my understanding of nuclear security, enabling me to deepen my knowledge, learn from renowned experts, and build meaningful connections worldwide,” said Clara Miarivola, a fellow from Madagascar.

Intan Nafisah of Indonesia echoed similar sentiments: “The experience gave me a new perspective on nuclear security. The experts were inspiring, and the networking opportunities with fellow participants were invaluable. I will promote nuclear security within my organization and hope to contribute to this field one day.”

These reflections underscore one of the key aims of the MSCFP — to build confidence and community among women entering nuclear fields, a sector where women remain underrepresented globally.

Building a More Inclusive Nuclear Future

Launched in 2020, the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme was named in honor of the pioneering physicist and two-time Nobel laureate who broke barriers in science. The programme provides financial support to women pursuing master’s degrees in nuclear science, engineering, safety, security, policy, and related fields.

Each fellowship includes up to €20,000 for tuition and €20,000 for living expenses, enabling recipients to focus on their studies and professional development. Fellows also gain access to IAEA internships and training programmes, such as the International School on Nuclear Security, providing real-world experience in international cooperation and nuclear governance.

By combining academic support with professional exposure, the programme aims to close the gender gap in the nuclear industry — a field where women currently account for only about 20–25 percent of the workforce globally.

“The MSCFP is about more than funding education,” said an IAEA representative. “It’s about creating opportunities, fostering mentorship, and building a community of women who will shape the future of nuclear safety and innovation.”

Looking Ahead: Applications Open

Applications for the next round of the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme are open until 31 October. The IAEA encourages women from all regions and disciplines to apply, particularly those from developing countries seeking to contribute to nuclear security, health, energy, and environmental protection.

As the latest group of fellows completes the International School on Nuclear Security, their experiences reflect a growing international movement — one that blends scientific excellence, gender equality, and global cooperation.

As Miarivola from Madagascar put it:

“This fellowship has given me not just knowledge, but a mission — to help ensure that nuclear science continues to serve humanity safely and responsibly.”