Interest in developing research reactors among IAEA Member States has grown significantly in recent years. Many countries are now progressing with new reactor projects to support their nuclear science, technology, and energy programmes. 

Research reactor projects require thorough planning, substantial investment, and strong commitments to nuclear safety, safeguards, security, and waste management. These factors —combined with diverse stakeholder interests and evolving reactor missions— make such projects uniquely complex, even compared to other nuclear energy initiatives. 

The “Specific Considerations and Milestones for a Research Reactor Project” document (Milestones Document), published by the IAEA in 2012, provided comprehensive guidance for Member States embarking on research reactor programmes. However, since its publication, many new countries have begun developing research reactor projects, gaining practical experience, encountering new challenges and risks, and identifying best practices. 

Considering these developments, the IAEA has undertaken a review and update of the Document to reflect current approaches, lessons learned, and the evolving needs of Member States.

The meeting is intended to discuss and assess the need for updates to the IAEA’s "Specific Considerations and Milestones for a Research Reactor Project" document to: 

• reflect current best practices, new challenges, and lessons learned from Member States' experiences;
• identify emerging challenges and risks faced by countries developing research reactors, including technical, regulatory, and operational issues; and
• discuss the latest standards and practices in ensuring nuclear safety, security, and safeguards in research reactor development. 

The meeting will gather inputs from Member States for the scope and development of a planned IAEA review of the document. The meeting also aims to provide a forum at which participants can share and discuss experiences, challenges, and lessons learned in developing research reactor programmes.