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Exploring a better tomorrow

We are constantly exploring. And have been since 1952. Driven by our passion for nuclear technology and empowered by our unique infrastructure. SCK CEN explores the limits of the possible. In this way, we continuously expand our knowledge in various nuclear fields. But no matter how many directions we explore, we always have the same goal in mind: developing innovative nuclear applications for a better world. Why? Because we are convinced that we can make a gigantic difference with one of the smallest elements on Earth – the atom. Both now and in the future. For people and nature. Read on and you will discover exactly how we do it.

Discover SCK CEN

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Check out our vacancies.

Engineer, account manager, technician or researcher? Come work at SCK CEN and join a team of pioneers. Every day we go for our goals and increase our nuclear expertise – driven by a tireless ambition to provide solutions to societal challenges.

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Learn about the SCK CEN Academy.

You are young and you want to do something. Or in your case: you are a student and strive for a better future, where everyone feels safe. The SCK CEN Academy offers a wide range of nuclear training courses, internships and learning opportunities for all future thinkers.

Werken aan het beheer en de ondersteuning bij SCK CEN (2018)

Engage SCK CEN as a partner that stands by your side.

SCK CEN has more than 70 years of experience in research on nuclear applications. With that expertise, we can guide and support your organisation in various radioactive issues.

Latest news

SCK CEN - BR2 - laagverrijkte targets voor productie medische radio-isotopen (2023)
31 May '23

Only low-enriched uranium left as base material for production of medical radioisotopes

SCK CEN lives up to promises of international summit in The Hague

The medical sector has always been able to rely on the nuclear research centre SCK CEN. It produces sorely needed medical radioisotopes in its BR2 research reactor, including molybdenum-99 and iodine-131. The former can be used to detect cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The latter, radioactive iodine, is in turn used to fight thyroid cancer. Both radioisotopes are created by irradiating uranium targets – tubes about 16 centimetres long. After 51 years, SCK CEN is switching completely to low-enriched uranium as base material. "Nothing changes for the patient or doctor, but it does for the world," said Steven Van Dyck, BR2 director. And he means that from a non-proliferation perspective. Since highly enriched uranium is no longer used in the production of these medical radioisotopes, that nips a potential spread of it in the bud.

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Nuclear lifecycle

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Nuclear medicine

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Nuclear safety

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Radiation protection

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Nuclear knowledge

How do we disseminate our nuclear knowledge?