VII International Science and Technical Conference Prospects for Implementation of Innovations in Nuclear Energy” NUCNEXT-2025

On 25-26 September, 2025, VII International Science and Technical Conference “Prospects for Implementation of Innovations in Nuclear Energy” NUCNEXT-2025 was held in the Large Conference Hall of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine. The conference became a platform for discussing contemporary challenges and opportunities for the development of nuclear energy. The event attracted more than 200 participants, including representatives of ministries, members of parliament, researchers, international experts, and young professionals. The event focused on innovation, safety, international cooperation, and post-war reconstruction of Ukraine's energy sector.

The main topics of the conference were:

• construction of new NPP power units and extension of their operating life;
• development of small modular reactors and modern reactor technologies;
• use of new materials to improve NPP safety and performance;
• digital innovations, modeling and simulation technologies;
• innovations in spent fuel and radioactive waste management;
• physical protection and challenges for nuclear energy in wartime;
• development of communications and educational initiatives in the nuclear industry.

Representatives of NFC STE NSC KIPT, among others, took an active part in the conference.

Valeriy Zuyok, Ph.D., senior scientist, presented a paper “Metallic hafnium as a neutron-absorbing material for absorber rods” and moderated the session “Trends in the development of reactor technologies. Innovative nuclear technologies and prospects for their implementation."

Ganna Riedkina, junior scientist, presented the results of the “Experience in manufacturing U-7%Mo cores for a subcritical assembly target” (Session “New materials and technologies for safe and efficient nuclear energy”).

Igor Chernov, junior scientist, PhD, made a poster presentation: “Thermal expansion of dysprosium titanate and dysprosium hafnate pellets.”

The conference lasted two days, covering seven sessions and a wide range of topics—from the latest scientific research and technological solutions to improving the safety and reliability of nuclear power plants. The event demonstrated the high potential of Ukrainian scientific schools and engineering thought, which form the future of Ukraine's nuclear energy sector. Through discussions and exchange of experiences, the conference became a real forum for generating new ideas, partnerships, and educational initiatives. The developments presented and challenges discussed marked the direction for further development of the industry—from the introduction of innovative materials and technologies to enhancing safety and training a new generation of specialists.