IYNC is the world’s leading global event that encourages the development and cross industry collaboration of the many peaceful uses of nuclear science, from cutting-edge medical and biology technologies that save lives to the role nuclear energy can play in the global energy transition. The Congress began on Sunday 8 March and will run until Friday 13 March 2020.
This is the first time the IYNC is being hosted in Australia, following a successful bid by the Australian Young Generation in Nuclear (AusYGN). Paramount to the bid’s success was financial commitment from both ANSTO and NERA (National Energy Resources Australia — the country’s Industry Growth Centre for energy resources), who are excited the event is being hosted in Australia and connecting our country's uranium industry with energy stakeholders from around the globe.
Under the theme Diversity in Nuclear, this year’s Congress is promoting and focussing on the diversity of people engaged in the many peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology. The IYNC also allows Australia to showcase its diverse nuclear portfolio and landmark infrastructure. Australia is the third largest uranium producer, home to approximately 31% of the world’s uranium reserves and home to one of the most advanced research reactors in the world.
NERA CEO Miranda Taylor said a strong domestic nuclear technology industry can benefit from the cross-sectorial exchange of innovation and knowledge to create value and employment opportunities across the economy.
“The IYNC is about supporting the emerging ranks of future leaders and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and technologists to solve tomorrow’s industry challenges,” Ms Taylor said.
“By continuing to support a technology-focussed, competitive and connected energy resources technology industry, Australia can leverage its geographic advantages into new avenues and sectors, identify the critical skills gap that can take our industry to the next level of development, and assist the industry to grow collaboration and innovation both nationally and internationally.”
Nuclear science skills play an important role in many industries, including resources, health, environmental research and food science. Alex Borovskis, General Co-Chair IYNC2020, said "From diagnosing cancer to improving agricultural production, nuclear science and technology is critical to global sustainable development goals. This event, the first of its kind in Australia, not only showcases the breadth of nuclear applications, it celebrates the diversity of people who deliver these outcomes for society".
As part of their support for IYNC2020, NERA is hosting the Congress’s Mentoring Program to champion the development of young professionals. The Program connects experienced representatives from around the world with young professionals in order to help, guide, and provide advice on how to make the most out of their career in the nuclear industry.
For more information about IYNC2020, visit iync2020.org.