The Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA)

NEA WebChat: How do we encourage more women to enter the nuclear science and technology field?

Attracting and retaining more women into careers in the physical sciences and technology, as well as enhancing the conditions and prospects for women and girls at every stage of their education and development is an important goal that many NEA member countries are pursuing. In support of these efforts, the NEA is working with its members to explore new and creative approaches to improve gender balance in the nuclear science and technology arena. As part of this priority, the NEA brought together a Leadership Panel with a Young Generation Panel on 28 May 2020. Speakers from both panels shared their personal experiences in nuclear science and technology. Then, they explored how governments, research bodies and the private sector can help improve the representation of women in all spheres of the nuclear sector. A video recording of this discussion will be available in the coming days.

NEA WebChat with Dr Rita Baranwal

The NEA is organising a series of WebChats to engage with leading figures in the energy sector and explore current issues through in‑depth conversations with NEA Director‑General Magwood. The first NEA WebChat was held on 14 May 2020 with Dr Rita Baranwal, Assistant Secretary for the Office of Nuclear Energy in the United States Department of Energy (DOE). As a recognised leader in nuclear innovation, Dr Baranwal drew on her personal experiences to discuss effective leadership, innovation and gender balance in the nuclear energy sector. She also shared her perspectives on the future of nuclear power and career opportunities for the next generation. A video recording of the event is available here.

NEA Director-General meets with H.E. Hamad Al Kaabi

NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, met virtually with H.E. Hamad Al Kaabi, Permanent Representative of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and UAE Special Representative for International Nuclear Cooperation, on 29 May 2020. The discussions covered a wide range of issues, including the current state of nuclear technology and the decarbonisation of electricity systems. The dialogue also touched on the impact of COVID‑19 on nuclear construction projects and regulatory decisions and practices. It was noted that the UAE's Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) continues to operate efficiently, while its staff works remotely with the exception of on‑site inspections.

Human aspects of nuclear safety:
Challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic

The ongoing COVID‑19 pandemic is having a major impact on the workforce around the world, from how people carry out their work under necessary social distancing rules to the unavailability of workers due to sickness or having to take care of others. The nuclear workforce is adapting to these unprecedented conditions and ensuring the safe and reliable generation of nuclear energy around the world. To explore how the nuclear sector is responding to the human and organisational challenges arising from the COVID‑19 pandemic, the NEA convened a special workshop on 9 April 2020 moderated by the NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV. Watch the workshop recording here: oe.cd/nea‑covid‑19‑2.

Message from NEA Director-General Magwood

The crisis we face today is unlike any we have ever faced in the era of globalisation and interconnectiveness. All countries feel the impact, all economies are affected, all populations are under threat. The event is ongoing and, by most accounts, is likely to be with us for months. The nuclear sector, like all other areas of our modern society, is doing its part to reduce the number of infections. The world’s nuclear power plants are operating safely and effectively and are contributing to the reliable grids needed to power the untold millions who are teleworking, the families sheltering at home, and essential medical facilities operating far beyond their intended capacity. But while the energy flows, the sector itself is impacted by the pandemic and must quickly adapt to ever‑changing, unprecedented, and uncertain circumstances. Read more