The ESFR-SIMPLE Summer School successfully concluded last week at the University of Cambridge, bringing together students, young professionals, and experts in advanced nuclear technologies.

Over the first two days, participants attended high-quality scientific lectures and presentations covering key outcomes of the ESFR-SIMPLE project. Topics included small modular Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor (SFR) core and systems design, safety analysis, and metallic fuel behaviour, with valuable contributions from leading scientists and student presenters. Highlights were keynote lectures from:

1. Tony Judd, ex-Chief Technologist, UK fast reactor programme, on “The UK Fast Breeder Reactor Project – 33 years on: What has been learnt?”
2. B. Venkatraman, ex-Director, IGCAR India, on “PFBR: India’s journey from conception to criticality”.

The final day featured a technical visit to the Culham Centre for Fusion Energy, including a tour of the JET (Joint European Torus) facility — an excellent opportunity to connect fission and fusion research communities.

The programme included a memorable formal dinner at Downing College — an excellent and welcoming atmosphere for networking and conversation among researchers, scientists, and organisers.

We extend our thanks to all speakers, organizers, and participants for their engagement and insightful discussions. Events like this play a vital role in building knowledge and networks for the future of sustainable nuclear energy.