S. Korea's nuclear research institute named IAEA collaborating center for 4th consecutive time

The Advanced Radiation Technology Institute of the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute has been designated an International Atomic Energy Agency Collaborating Centre for the fourth consecutive time. The recognition is expected to raise the global profile of South Korea's radiation convergence technology — spanning gamma rays, electron beams and neutrons — and expand international cooperation.

The Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute held a plaque-presentation ceremony Tuesday (local time) at IAEA headquarters in Vienna, marking the institute's redesignation as an IAEA Collaborating Centre. IAEA Deputy Director General Najat Mokhtar and Advanced Radiation Technology Institute Director Jeong Byeong-yeop attended the event and signed the designation agreement.

The IAEA Collaborating Centre network designates specialized institutions to support member states' research and development and education and training programs. Designation signals that the IAEA recognizes an institution as having expertise and capability in a specific field. Ninety centers across 43 countries currently hold the designation.

The Advanced Radiation Technology Institute was first designated an IAEA Collaborating Centre in 2012, becoming the first radiation-focused institution in South Korea to receive the status. It was redesignated in 2017 and again in 2022 before securing its fourth consecutive designation this year.

Over that period, the institute has run international radiation education programs, participated in IAEA joint research projects and technical cooperation programs, and hosted international conferences including "Atoms for a Healthy Planet" to promote the global spread of radiation convergence technology.

Under the new designation, the institute will continue working with the IAEA on applications of gamma rays, electron beams and neutrons in environmental science, biotechnology and materials industries, as well as on mobile electron accelerator technology. It also plans to expand its role in sharing South Korea's accumulated radiation technology and research experience with IAEA member states.

"Being named an IAEA Collaborating Centre for the fourth consecutive time is an internationally recognized testament to our institute's expertise in radiation," Acting President Im In-cheol said. "We will lead the advancement of radiation science and technology through close cooperation with the international community and fulfill our role as a technology-donor country."