The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme, named after the pioneering physicist, was launched by the agency’s director-general Rafael Mariano Grossi in March to support women pursuing nuclear-related careers. Mr Grossi announced the inaugural class of fellows at this week’s IAEA board of governors meeting, which was held virtually from 18 to 20 November. “After their studies, the fellows will join the ranks of those working on peaceful uses of nuclear energy all over the world,” he said.
Out of over 550 applicants from more than 90 countries, the first 100 fellows represent geographic diversity, coming from 71 different countries. Their studies focus on a range of nuclear-related subjects, from nuclear engineering to nuclear medicine, and from nuclear security to non-proliferation and nuclear law.
The fellowship offers up to €10,000 a year to each student to cover tuition for a Master’s degree programme plus up to a further €10,000 annually for living costs for a maximum study period of two years. Fellows will also have an opportunity to undertake an internship, facilitated by the IAEA, in activities related to their field of study.