Belgian Nuclear Research Centre
Science and Technology Studies

Science, technology and society interact and influence each other in complex ways. A responsible approach to questioning if, when and how the development and use of nuclear technology is justified therefore requires a thorough reflection not only on techno-scientific issues, but also on social aspects (e.g. political, ethical, economic). The research of the group is organised in the form of the PISA programme (Programme of Integration of Social Aspects into nuclear research).

As a research group within SCK-CEN, we support a responsible approach to research and innovation as a self-critical, reflexive approach, fostered by working transdisciplinary and with the participation of actors with various backgrounds and interests (civil society representatives, citizens, scientists from various disciplines, politicians, managers, …). The current research and policy support activities are organised along the following thematic areas:

Risk perception and attitudes towards radiation risks and nuclear activities
Risk communication in nuclear/radiological emergencies
Safety culture
Governance of radioactive waste
Multi-criteria decision aid for policy formulation in the nuclear field
Energy governance
The science, politics and ethics of nuclear technology assessment

In the past years, research was also done in a number of thematic areas that may become active again in the future:
Legal aspects and liability
Proliferation
Radiological protection of human vs. non-human biota
Ethics and expert culture