Physics and IAEA: Atoms for Peace and Development

Introduction The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is the world center for cooperation in the nuclear field to help accelerate and enlarge the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technologies. It is part of the United Nations (UN) family and unique in that it is the only one having analytical, research and development laboratories. The IAEA is mostly known for its critical role in nuclear safeguards and is often referred to as the “nuclear watchdog.” However, the IAEA also works toward safe, secure, and sustainable nuclear power generation and in applications of non-power nuclear technologies as well. The IAEA’s activities in applications of non-power nuclear technologies aim to positively impact health, prosperity, and directly contribute to the achievement of nine of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) [1]. The Division of Physical and Chemical Sciences (NAPC) at the IAEA, in the Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications, has the expertise to support IAEA Member States (MS) in nuclear sciences to build capacities and optimize benefits from nuclear technologies. The areas of nuclear science addressed in NAPC are broad; those embedded within the realm of physics include: