Dr. Marija Šljivić-Ivanović and Dr. Milica Ćurčić representatives of the Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, participated in the three-day workshop titled “Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor (FIRST) Technology: Selection, Financing, Safety, Security, and Non-Proliferation”, held in Belgrade from December 17 to 19, 2024.

The workshop brought together leading experts from Serbia and the United States to exchange valuable insights on small modular reactor (SMR) technologies, their safe and secure deployment, and challenges related to nuclear non-proliferation. Key topics included reactor safety by design, security measures, and methodologies for evaluating and selecting SMR technologies tailored to national and regional energy needs.

Participants engaged in practical exercises, analyzing critical criteria for technology assessment, exploring the integration of SMRs into existing energy infrastructure, and investigating broader applications such as hydrogen production. The discussions also covered essential aspects such as public acceptance, the importance of environmental impact assessments, and comprehensive security measures during reactor development and operation.

The active involvement of “Vinča” Institute representatives in this workshop underscores Serbia’s growing expertise in the field of advanced nuclear technologies, reinforcing the commitment to the highest safety and security standards in the global nuclear energy landscape.