Strengthening knowledge and expertise

Guaranteeing nuclear safety
16 januari 2025

Belgian Reactor 2 (BR2) is the lifeblood of nuclear medicine. Millions of patients depend on its output each year. SCK CEN bears a considerable responsibility as a nuclear research centre. We ensure reliable delivery through efficient and stringent obsolescence management. For this reason, we are taking a production break from 11 October to 10 December to implement a rejuvenation programme. Those modernisations ensure long-term stability. They reduce the risk of unexpected, technical malfunctions and make uninterrupted operation more certain in the future.

Exploring innovative nuclear systems
25 June 2024

Construction of MYRRHA Phase 1 - MINERVA is underway. This is the direct outcome of decades of design studies, enhancing our research capabilities. This research facility will pave the way for materials research under irradiation conditions similar to those found in nuclear fusion. For the medical sector, this translates into the development of a new generation of medical radioisotopes. 

Exploring innovative nuclear systems
9 December 2024

As the MYRRHA Phase 1 - MINERVA building rises, our scientists are setting up the facilities to support it. ISOL@MYRRHA – the heart of MINERVA's isotope production – is one of them. The plant was put into cold operation in 2024, operating with non-radioactive material. And with success! This vital test not only confirms our expectations but is also critical to reaching our research goals.

Exploring nuclear medicine
11 September 2024

It is widely believed that radioligand therapy could transform the approach to cancer treatment. The success of PanTera proves that pharmaceutical investors share this belief. In 2024, our joint venture with IBA secured Series A funding of €93 million. The total amount raised, including additional equity and debt financing, amounts to EUR 134 million. With this funding, PanTera is financially equipped to realise its ambitions and build the necessary infrastructure. This brings us one step closer to the large-scale production of actinium-225.

18 April 2024

With the 'Exploring 2040' plan, we have sharpened our commitment to social impact. As such, we focus on three strategic areas: innovative nuclear systems, nuclear waste management and decommissioning, and advanced cancer therapies. In 2024, we saw that future plan further strengthened with the signing of a management agreement with the Belgian state. 

Science takes root in the fertile ground of accumulated knowledge. To give new ideas the space to sprout and flourish.

Science thrives on a strong incentive. To inspire others and build momentum in research and development.

Science requires a broad perspective, so that it can learn from and connect with other fields.